Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 15 March 2024
The Member of Parliament representing Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, has sounded an alarm regarding the looming threat posed by dangerous trees scattered across the archipelago, calling for urgent action to ensure public safety.
In a bid to address the pressing issue, Mr. Sharma penned a letter to the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, underscoring the gravity of the situation. He highlighted the imminent peril these trees, particularly those lining busy roads and densely populated areas, pose to residents and commuters alike. The looming specter of adverse weather conditions, such as cyclones or heavy winds, exacerbates the risk of these trees or their branches tumbling down onto roads, residences, or unsuspecting pedestrians, potentially culminating in fatal accidents.
Tragically, past incidents have underscored the severity of the issue, claiming lives within the community. Mr. Sharma underscored the prevailing apprehension among Islanders regarding the absence of proper avenues to address these safety concerns. Many residents find themselves at a loss regarding whom to approach for assistance in mitigating the hazards posed by these perilous trees.
Responding to these mounting concerns, the Member of Parliament has urged the Andaman & Nicobar Administration to swing into action without delay. With the Monsoon season looming, he has implored the establishment of a dedicated helpline number exclusively earmarked for reporting hazardous trees in the vicinity. Furthermore, he stressed the imperative of widely disseminating this helpline number to ensure seamless access for concerned individuals seeking assistance.
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma’s proactive stance underscores the imperative of prioritising public safety in the face of looming environmental hazards, urging swift and decisive action to mitigate the risks posed by dangerous trees in Andaman & Nicobar Islands.