Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 30 August 2025
In a major relief for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Mr. Nitin Gadkari, has sanctioned ₹49.98 crore for 90 road projects across the Islands. The sanction, issued on August 28, 2025, covers both municipal areas and rural regions under the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD).
The approval follows consistent efforts by Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, A&N Islands, who had earlier highlighted the pressing need for financial support during Mr. Gadkari’s visit to Sri Vijaya Puram on December 28, 2024. At that time, Mr. Ray had pointed out that the limited UT budget was insufficient to carry out critical road repairs and upgrades, urging support under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) scheme.
Responding positively, Mr. Gadkari had immediately assured assistance and directed the A&N Administration to submit detailed proposals. Acting on this directive, the Administration submitted roadwork proposals in April and July 2025. Mr. Ray continued to personally follow up with the Minister, leading to in-principle approval on August 7, 2025, and the formal sanction order this week.
The sanctioned works include 49 projects across all 24 Municipal Wards and 41 projects under APWD divisions, comprising:
– CD-III Prothrapur – 5 works
– RCD Wimberlygunj – 29 works
– MID Hut Bay – 5 works
- CD Campbell Bay – 2 works
Expressing gratitude, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray said the sanction was a landmark step that would significantly improve infrastructure across the Islands. He thanked Mr. Nitin Gadkari for his “visionary leadership and benevolent support” and also appreciated the A&N Administration for swiftly preparing the proposals.
The MP has further urged the Administration to expedite submission of pending road proposals for North & Middle Andaman and other left-out areas so that similar approvals can be secured without delay. He assured islanders that he would continue to pursue the projects vigorously with the Ministry until their sanction and execution under CRIF is ensured.
