Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 17 May 2025
In a historic move to boost connectivity for remote tribal communities in the Nicobar District, the ports of Makachua and Afra Bay have officially been added as Calling Ports on vessel routes between Sri Vijaya Puram and Campbell Bay via all ports. The inclusion follows a request made by tribal residents during the recent visit of the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration.
Marking a significant milestone, the Shipping Department scheduled MV Sentinel to call at Makachua and Afra Bay on 8 May 2025—making it the first Inter-Island vessel to reach these isolated islands since the 2004 tsunami. Despite adverse weather conditions, the vessel successfully called at both locations during its onward and return journeys.
The arrival of MV Sentinel at Makachua Island was met with heartfelt celebrations. The local tribal community welcomed the vessel with a traditional “flowering at sea” ceremony, expressing joy and gratitude for the renewed lifeline.
In a bid to ensure sustained access, the A&N Administration has announced that regular monthly sailings to Makachua and Afra Bay will now take place on the second Thursday of every month from Sri Vijaya Puram. This initiative reflects the Administration’s commitment to inclusive development and addressing the longstanding connectivity challenges faced by tribal communities.
Residents of Makachua and Afra Bay have extended their sincere appreciation to the Chief Secretary, Secretary (Shipping), and Director of Shipping Services for their collective efforts in realizing this long-pending demand.