Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 02 October 2023
In a concerted effort to enhance connectivity and alleviate the transportation woes faced by residents of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Member of Parliament Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has formally requested the Hon’ble Lt. Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to expedite the launch of a much-anticipated fixed-wing Aircraft Service between Diglipur and Port Blair.
In a heartfelt letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Mr. Sharma underscored the pivotal importance of this project, which, though nearing completion, has encountered delays primarily due to administrative paperwork and minor obstacles.
During a recent radio interview, the Secretary of Civil Aviation disclosed significant progress in this venture. Notably, the passenger hall at Diglipur airport has been completed and handed over to the Airport Authority of India, marking a significant milestone. Additionally, an agreement between the administration and Big Charter has been successfully concluded. However, the sole remaining obstacle lies in finalising an agreement between the Airport Authority of India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Administration, along with addressing a few other minor issues.
Mr. Sharma’s letter also emphasized the current hardships endured by residents, particularly those residing in the North and Middle Andaman, as a result of the deplorable state of NH4. The inadequate ferry services have transformed the journey to Diglipur into an arduous and challenging ordeal for thousands of individuals. This dire situation significantly impacts the daily lives of North and Middle Andaman residents, adding undue stress to their routines.
The Member of Parliament firmly believes that now is the opportune moment to expedite the launch of daily fixed-wing aircraft services between Port Blair and Diglipur. Such a crucial initiative not only promises to provide much-needed relief to the island’s inhabitants but also stands to have a transformative impact on the local economy in multiple aspects.
Mr. Sharma has earnestly requested the personal intervention of the Hon’ble Lt. Governor in this matter, expressing confidence that such intervention will prioritise and expedite the necessary paperwork and resolve remaining minor issues swiftly. This gesture, he believes, will significantly contribute to the betterment of the island’s transportation infrastructure and the overall quality of life for its residents.