Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 10 October 2023
The STM, Port Blair Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has formally requested the Deputy Commissioner of North and Middle Andaman District to take swift action for the immediate repair of National Highway-4 (NH-4) to ensure the uninterrupted supply of petroleum products to the region.
NH-4, the only road connecting South Andaman to different areas of North and Middle Andaman District, has reached a deplorable state, causing daily challenges for vehicles traversing its length. IOCL’s STM of Port Blair Terminal conveyed deep concerns about the deteriorating condition of NH-4 in a written communication.
In the letter, STM emphasised the pressing need for repairs, citing the severe safety risks posed to the transportation of petroleum products. The current state of NH-4 not only endangers the integrity of the products but also the lives of drivers and helpers involved in the transportation process.
Furthermore, STM underscored the potential for a catastrophic disaster if petroleum product spills were to occur due to the perilous road conditions. Immediate action is crucial, as the existing road condition may render it unfeasible to mount an effective response to spills or accidents resulting from the poor state of NH-4.
The Port Blair Terminal of IOCL plays a pivotal role as the exclusive supplier of petroleum products in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The terminal shoulders the responsibility of meeting the energy needs of North and Middle Andaman, including the supply of High-Speed Diesel (HSD) to Power Houses and various petroleum products to local outlets.
The appeal from IOCL emphasises the critical importance of addressing the state of NH-4 to guarantee the continued and secure supply of essential petroleum products to the region.