Port Blair, Oct 22 (PIB) The Union Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Chemicals and Fertilizers, Mr. Mansukh Mandaviya reviewed the projects being implemented in the islands by Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works (ALHW) and National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) in a meeting held at the Andaman and Nicobar Administration’s Secretariat Conference hall today. The Minister asked the officials of various departments attending the meeting to work in close coordination for timely implementation of projects as this would not only generate employment for local people but also enhance the living standards of the islanders.
Interacting with media post meeting, the Minister informed that since 2016-17, NHIDCL has awarded projects for up-gradation of approximately 240 KM of national highways and two major bridges at an estimated cost of Rs 1580 crores. In addition, Ministry has in principal declared 137 km additional road length as national highway which will be completed by 2020 at an estimated cost of Rs 500 crores. Member of Parliament Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray and senior officials of various departments of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration were also present in the meeting.
Earlier in the morning, the Minister chaired a meeting at Havelock Island with the officials of ALHW, Forest Department, and Directorate of Shipping Services wherein a presentation was made regarding the proposed works/projects to be undertaken by ALHW and Andaman and Nicobar Administration for the betterment of shipping services and enhancing tourism in the island. The Minister announced two important projects on the occasion.
1. Additional approach to Havelock Jetty for Smooth operation of cargo and movement of passengers and
2. 100% funding from Government of India under ‘Sagarmala Programme’ for developing State-of-Art Passenger Terminal at Havelock Jetty.
During the day, the Minister also inspected the site for proposed Bambooflat Chatham Bridge, NH-4 from Bathu Basthi to Sippighat and dry-dock at Port Blair.
