Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 09 August 2025
In a crucial meeting held on 8th August 2025, Mr. Vishal Jolly, National Executive Member of the BJP & Former State President, met with the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to raise and discuss pressing issues affecting the islands.
During the discussion, Jolly brought up three major concerns requiring urgent administrative attention.
- Chatham Bridge Accessibility:
Highlighting the hardships faced by pregnant women, children, and persons with disabilities due to restrictions on the ageing Chatham Bridge, Jolly proposed introducing battery-operated vehicles to ferry these groups between Chatham Jetty and Chatham Police Station junction. He also urged the administration to explore temporary reinforcement of the existing bridge as an interim solution until a new bridge is constructed, after consultation with engineering experts.
- Power Supply and Hydro Power Efficiency:
Jolly voiced serious concern over frequent power outages across the islands, which he said were disrupting public life, businesses, and students. He stressed the need for urgent measures to improve reliability and also called for a thorough review and efficiency upgrade of the Diglipur hydro power project on the Kalpong River, citing its underperformance.
- Condition of National Highway-4
Pointing to the deteriorating state of NH-4, the 300-km lifeline connecting South Andaman with North and Middle Andaman, Jolly urged faster repair and maintenance. The Chief Secretary informed that while full completion would take time, interim steps are underway to make the road motorable.
Describing the meeting as “positive and productive,” Jolly said the Chief Secretary had assured proactive action on all the issues raised.
