Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 13 December 2024
MP Bishnu Pada Ray has called on Mr. Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister for Communication and Development of the North Eastern Region, and Chairman of MPs Redressal Committee, to address critical issues affecting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In a detailed letter dated December 10, 2024, the MP outlined six key demands that require immediate government intervention to improve the region’s governance, infrastructure, and welfare.
- Stalled Land Conversion Cases:
Highlighting the six-year halt on land conversions since 2018, MP Ray emphasised the negative impact on housing, industrial growth, and individual needs. With private land constituting only 3% of the territory, efficient land management is vital for the islands’ development. The backlog has severely disrupted planning and development, leaving many citizens in limbo. MP Ray criticized local authorities for the delay, suggesting that concerned officials were acting arbitrarily. He urged a time-bound mechanism to clear pending cases and called for accountability from those responsible for the prolonged inaction.
2. Unjustified Circle Rates and Stamp Duties:
The MP pointed out that the administration had unilaterally revised circle rates and stamp duties for land transactions without consulting stakeholders. This move, implemented despite previous judicial interventions, has caused widespread public discontent. Ray noted that the excessive rates not only burden citizens but also discourage investments in the region. He demanded the immediate cancellation of the revised rates and stressed the need for transparency and compliance with legal procedures in such decisions.
3. Healthcare Infrastructure in Crisis:
The MP expressed grave concerns over the healthcare system, particularly the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS) and GB Pant Hospital. He detailed the acute shortage of specialist doctors, citing that departments such as general medicine, cardiology, and critical care are severely understaffed. For instance, the CATH lab at GB Pant Hospital is non-functional due to the lack of a cardiologist, leaving patients with no choice but to seek treatment on the mainland. Similarly, the absence of neurosurgeons has led to preventable fatalities among accident victims.
He proposed deputing specialist doctors from the Central Health Services on a rotational basis to address immediate needs and requested the Health Ministry take over ANIIMS to ensure quality medical education and patient care. He also called for improved healthcare facilities in rural areas, including gynaecologists and radiologists at district hospitals and community health centres across the islands.
4. Empowering Local Bodies:
MP Ray criticised the withdrawal of powers and reduction in funding for Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), which has crippled local governance and village-level development projects. He described the current state of PRIs as “paralyzed,” with their functions and responsibilities curtailed. The MP demanded the restoration of their powers and adequate funding as per the Union Territory Finance Commission’s recommendations to ensure effective grassroots governance.
5. Neglect of Port Infrastructure:
Port infrastructure, a lifeline for the islanders, has been left in disrepair due to mismanagement. MP Ray noted that the Andaman and Lakshadweep Harbour Works (ALHW), which managed the ports effectively for decades, has been sidelined since 2021, with responsibilities shifted to the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD). However, the APWD lacks expertise in marine infrastructure, leading to three years of neglect.
As a result, 32 jetties across the islands are now in a state of severe disrepair, threatening inter-island connectivity and the safety of the population. Ray urged immediate directive to appropriate officers of A & N Administration to take immediate action to safeguard all Ports and Marine Infrastructure in A & N Islands.
6. Supply Chain Disruptions:
The MP highlighted a shipping crisis that has disrupted the supply of essential commodities to the islands. Coastal vessels carrying goods between Chennai and Port Blair have faced delays due to the denial of berthing at container terminals at Chennai Port, which now prioritize foreign vessels. Coastal Vessels are forced to use General Cargo Berth, which lacks specialised equipment and trained manpower to handle containers. This has led to shortages of essential items such as perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and construction materials, driving up prices and causing hardship for residents.
MP Ray called for the Ministry of Ports to intervene and ensure priority berthing for Andaman-bound ships at Chennai ports. He emphasised the importance of uninterrupted supply chains for the region’s welfare.
7. Pending Chatham-Bambooflat Bridge Project
The MP reminded the government of its commitments in 2015 and 2018 to construct a bridge between Chatham and Bambooflat. Despite multiple meetings and assurances, the project remains stalled. He urged expedited approvals and action on this critical infrastructure project, which would significantly improve connectivity in South Andaman.
Call for Urgent Action
Through his letter, MP Ray has spotlighted the growing challenges faced by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, urging the central government to act decisively. From governance and infrastructure to healthcare and supply chain issues, his demands reflect the immediate need to address the islands’ pressing concerns and ensure sustainable development for the residents.