Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 10 January 2024
In a significant meeting held on January 9th, 2024, Mr. Vishal Jolly, National Executive Committee Member of the BJP, alongside Mr. E.S. Rajesh, District President of BJP for Nicobar District, engaged with the Chief Secretary of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration. The primary focus of the discussion revolved around critical issues impacting the Nicobar District, with a pressing call for prompt resolutions.
Mr. Jolly & Mr. E S Rajesh, following a comprehensive tour across the Nicobar District and extensive consultations with Tribal Council office bearers, Captains, and local inhabitants across major islands, highlighted several key concerns demanding immediate attention.
1. Vacant Position of Superintending Engineer in APWD:
Expressing deep concern, Mr. Jolly highlighted the stagnation in developmental and maintenance work under APWD due to the absence of a Superintending Engineer in Nicobar District. He strongly advocated for the urgent permanent posting of a SE to facilitate progress of crucial projects.
2. Halt in COPRA Procurement
The abrupt cessation of COPRA procurement without valid reasoning was underscored by the BJP delegation. They urged the swift reinstatement of the procurement activities without further delay.
3. Water Scarcity in Select Areas
The exacerbating scarcity of water in Car Nicobar, Chowra, and Teressa raised significant alarms. Mr. Jolly emphasised the critical need to ensure regular and adequate water supply to residents of these islands.
4. Deteriorating Water Pipeline Infrastructure
Bringing attention to a vital infrastructure issue, Mr. Jolly highlighted the ageing and rusty condition of water pipelines across several islands in Nicobar District. Urgent replacement was advocated to address this pressing concern.
5. Free Helicopter Transport for Referred Patients
A specific demand was made to airlift referred patients from all Andaman & Nicobar Islands, free of cost, through helicopters. Mr. Jolly stressed that given the inadequate healthcare infrastructure and specialists on the islands, it is the state’s responsibility to facilitate free transportation for referred patients to Port Blair.
6. Concessions for Non-Tribal Residents
Advocating for equitable treatment, the delegation requested documentation for non-tribal residents in Nicobar District to enable them to avail concessions on ship and helicopter tickets, similar to other islanders.
7. Septic Tank Cleaning under Swachh Bharat Mission
Highlighting health hazards, Mr. Jolly pointed out the neglect in periodic cleaning of septic tanks at permanent shelters. He urged regular cleaning of these tanks under the Swachh Bharat Mission to mitigate health risks.
The BJP delegation strongly urged the Chief Secretary to take immediate action on these critical issues to ensure the welfare and development of the Nicobar District. These concerns, they emphasized, are imperative for the well-being and progress of the local populace.