Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 30 September 2023
In a bid to alleviate the ongoing struggles faced by residents of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to the deplorable condition of National Highway 4 (NH4), Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, Member of Parliament for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, held a crucial meeting with the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration on September 27, 2023.
The deteriorating state of NH4 has been a source of immense hardship for the inhabitants of North and Middle Andaman, as well as for the daily commuters who rely on this crucial route for their transportation needs.
During the meeting, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma voiced his deep concerns over the persistently poor condition of NH4 and appealed to the Chief Secretary to initiate a daily ferry service between Port Blair and Rangat, as well as Rangat to Port Blair. This proposal aims to provide a vital alternative transportation mode for the residents of Middle Andaman, spanning across at least 12 Panchayats in the region.
Highlighting the significance of such a ferry service, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma emphasised that it would be a welcome relief for the general public. It would offer a direct and convenient route to Port Blair, sparing them the numerous challenges and discomforts posed by NH4’s current condition.
Furthermore, the MP stressed that the proposed initiative would greatly benefit vulnerable groups within the population, including patients, senior citizens, and children, ensuring a more hassle-free and comfortable journey for them. Additionally, it is expected to ease the burden on NH4 commuters who have long endured the road’s arduous conditions.