Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 22 December 2024
The Hon’ble Member of Parliament representing Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, has requested the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for the release of Rs. 156 crore from the Central Road Fund (CRF) to address the deteriorating road infrastructure in the Union Territory. In a recent letter to Union Minister Mr. Nitin Gadkari, Mr. Ray urged the expeditious approval of the funds, emphasising the importance of roads for the socio-economic development of remote regions in the Islands.
Over the past five years, many roads in the region have fallen into disrepair, with no significant action taken to address the issue. However, after being re-elected for a fourth term after a gap of five years, Mr. Ray launched a vigorous campaign to prioritise road repairs. Notably, the National Highway in the Middle Andaman region, which had been in a poor state, is now undergoing complete reconstruction under the supervision of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
In his communication to the Ministry, Mr. Ray highlighted that roads are a vital lifeline for the residents of the Islands, connecting isolated areas and supporting essential socio-economic activities. He further pointed out that Andaman and Nicobar Administration solely is unable to undertake road repair and improvement works due to limited financial resources.
The estimates for the construction of new roads and the repair of existing ones have already been submitted by the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD) to the Ministry for approval. Mr. Ray stated that the approval of the Rs. 156 crore funding will significantly contribute to the timely development and maintenance of critical road infrastructure in the Islands, benefiting residents and supporting the region’s economic growth.
The MP’s efforts reflect his continued commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, ensuring that they have access to better connectivity and infrastructure.