Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 24 November 2023
In a recent meeting at New Delhi, Mr. Vishal Jolly, National Executive Member of the BJP, engaged with Mr. Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, addressing the critical issues surrounding the state of National Highway-4 (NH-4) across various stretches of the North & Middle Andaman District.
Mr. Jolly presented a comprehensive ground report highlighting the prevailing challenges faced by residents and visitors alike in the region. He emphasised the pressing difficulties encountered due to the inadequate conditions of NH-4, underscoring the urgency for improvements.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the contractor’s performance, the Hon’ble Minister acknowledged the dire situation along NH-4 and the hardships faced by the people in the region. He announced the termination of the contract with the underperforming contractor and disclosed plans to initiate a fresh tender, expediting the process to recommence and complete the pending work promptly.
Furthermore, addressing the need to complete the Baratang Bridge project, crucial for connecting Middle Straight with Baratang, the Minister revealed that the tender for this project has been opened and would soon be awarded, facilitating the resumption of work.
Acknowledging the plight of the North & Middle Andaman residents due to the deplorable condition of NH-4, the Minister assured swift action to rectify the situation.
In a pivotal move, Mr. Jolly reiterated the urgent requirement for adequate funds to address the repairs needed for the roads under the Port Blair Municipal Council, citing the Central Road & Infrastructure Fund (CRF). Responding affirmatively to this request, the Hon’ble Minister committed to releasing an amount of Rs. 60 crores under the CRF for the necessary repairs.
Additionally, Mr. Jolly emphasised the necessity for supplementary funds to render several sections of NH-4 motorable. The Minister acceded to this request, agreeing to release an additional Rs. 13 crores for these purposes.
Mr. Jolly extended a cordial invitation to the Hon’ble Minister to visit the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and specifically the North & Middle Andaman District. Accepting the invitation, the Minister affirmed his intention to undertake this visit in the near future.