Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 09 September 2023
In a significant move to address pressing concerns in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Member of Parliament for the region, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, met with the Hon’ble Lt. Governor on Friday, September 7, 2023. During the meeting, several critical issues related to the welfare and development of the Islanders were discussed.
Increase in Old Age Pension:
Mr. Sharma began the discussion by drawing attention to the plight of elderly citizens who are struggling due to rising inflation. He proposed an increase in the old-age pension from its current level to Rs. 5000. Highlighting the financial stress faced by seniors who often have to pay rent, medical expenses, and transportation costs, Mr. Sharma emphasised the need for a more substantial pension to meet their essential needs.
Upgradation of NH4:
Concerns were also raised about the deteriorating condition of NH4 (Andaman Trunk Road), which has become increasingly unsafe due to numerous potholes and muddy sections. Mr. Sharma urged the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to address this issue promptly by engaging with the relevant ministry to ensure necessary repairs and maintenance.
Weekly Services of MV Sindhu for Diglipur:
Acknowledging the risks posed by the deteriorating NH4, Mr. Sharma proposed scheduling MV Sindhu’s trips to Diglipur Island via Mayabunder on a weekly basis. This move aims to provide a safer and more reliable mode of transportation for residents and patients traveling to and from Port Blair.
Installation of Streetlights:
The absence of streetlights in various villages across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, especially in areas with children and elderly residents, raised concerns about safety. Mr. Sharma called for the installation of streetlights in these affected areas to address these safety concerns.
Petrol Pump at Kalara Junction:
Mr. Sharma highlighted the inconvenience faced by residents of five panchayats in the Diglipur region due to the lack of a dedicated petrol pump. He suggested establishing a petrol pump at Kalara Junction, strategically located on NH4, to serve the approximately 25,000 residents in the area.
Addressing Old Tree-Related Risks:
In light of recent weather-related incidents involving uprooted trees, Mr. Sharma proposed the formation of a special committee comprising representatives from various departments, including PRI, Forest, Fire Services, Electricity, Revenue, and APWD. This committee’s primary objective would be to identify and assess old and potentially dangerous trees, taking necessary measures to mitigate risks, such as pruning or removal.
Posting of Specialist Doctors at CHC Diglipur:
Expressing concerns over the absence of specialist doctors at CHC Diglipur, Mr. Sharma emphasised the need for gynaecologists and surgeons in the region. Given the healthcare needs of the area, he called on the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to intervene and facilitate the posting of these specialists to CHC Diglipur, reducing the need for patients to travel to Port Blair for specialised treatment.
Veterinary Doctor Vacancies:
Mr. Sharma also drew attention to the 18 vacant positions for veterinary doctors in the Animal Husbandry Department, which has led to difficulties for residents of remote islands. He appealed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to expedite the recruitment process to ensure residents in the North and Middle Andaman regions can access essential veterinary services for their animals.