Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 29 July 2023
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, Member of Parliament representing Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has made a fervent appeal to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to take immediate steps in procuring a new operational Headring Machine for the iconic Chatham Saw Mill.
In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma highlighted the pressing need for a new Headring Machine at the Chatham Saw Mill. Presently, out of the two Headring Machines responsible for slicing logs, the 54″ Vertical Saw Band machine, installed way back in 1974, had to be dismantled due to its age and malfunctioning components.
This unfortunate circumstance has left the renowned Chatham Saw Mill with just one operational Headring Machine, the 72″ Vertical Saw Band machine, which was installed in 1984 and is now approaching its 40th year of service. Mr. Sharma stressed that this lone operational machine has been pushed beyond its intended lifespan and has become increasingly susceptible to major breakdowns.
The Chatham Saw Mill, apart from being one of the oldest sawmills in the region, holds immense historical significance, attracting a considerable number of tourists daily. Its contributions to the local economy and its role as a major source of timber for the people of Andaman and Nicobar Islands further emphasise the criticality of maintaining its smooth operations.
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma expressed concerns that in the unfortunate event of the existing 72″ Vertical Saw Band machine experiencing a severe breakdown, the Saw Mill would come to a standstill, resulting in a significant setback for the entire region. Additionally, such a situation would adversely impact the revenue generated by the Saw Mill for the Government.
To safeguard the interests of the people and preserve this invaluable asset, Mr. Sharma passionately requested the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to prioritise the procurement of a new operational Headring Machine. The acquisition of a new machine, he emphasised, would not only enhance productivity but also serve as a crucial backup in case of any unforeseen issues with the existing one.