Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 09 July 2024
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament representing Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has addressed a pressing concern to Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways, regarding the deteriorating state of National Highway 4 (NH-4) in the region.
In a formal letter to Minister Gadkari, MP Ray highlighted the stark contrast between the first and subsequent phases of NH-4 development in the Andaman Islands. While commending the successful completion of the initial phase and the construction of one crucial bridges during his tenure as MP, Ray expressed deep concern over the current condition of the highway, particularly from Baratang to Mayabunder in the North and Middle Andaman district.
Ray underscored that the incomplete bridge over the middle strait and the poor road conditions have turned NH 4 into a nightmare for travellers. He lamented the adverse impact on livelihoods, tourism, and public health due to frequent breakdowns, accidents, and the spread of respiratory ailments among villagers exposed to dust and dirt along the route.
The collapse of tourism, the most successful industry in the Isles, has crippled the economy of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and deprived many of employment opportunities, Ray stated in his letter, urging immediate intervention to rectify the situation.
With hopes pinned on post-election improvements, Ray called upon Minister Gadkari to:
– Expedite the completion of NH 4 to match standards seen elsewhere.
– Address bottlenecks delaying the middle strait bridge construction.
– Initiate an inquiry to determine accountability for delays and inefficiencies.
Ray concluded his appeal with a plea for urgent action, confident in Minister Gadkari’s commitment to restoring the highway’s functionality and improving the lives of Andaman Islanders.