ANDAMAN SHEEKHA

The True Mirror of A & N Islands

Archives for May 18, 2023

Terrible State of Floating Jetty in Baratang Island Raises Concerns for Tour Operators

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John Wilbert & Vikramaditya

Port Blair, May 18: The deteriorating condition of the floating jetty at Nilambur Jetty in the Baratang Islands has been a cause for concern among tour operators for several years, greatly affecting tourism in the area.

The floating jetty serves as a crucial entry and departure point for tourists traveling to the limestone caves through the mangroves. Its prolonged neglect and poor maintenance have resulted in a hazardous situation, with the jetty at risk of collapsing at any time or visitors potentially falling into the sea. To ensure safety, boat operators and staff have been providing hand support to tourists as they walk across the damaged jetty.

Given that the peak tourism season in Baratang runs from October to March, it is imperative for the administration to undertake the necessary repair work before the influx of tourists. Thousands of visitors rely on this jetty for embarking and disembarking from boats. Regrettably, the absence of handrails along the jetty exacerbates the difficulties faced by tourists, as stated by a local tour operator.

On a daily basis, more than 400 tourists visit the Baratang Islands, with the floating jetty being their sole means of accessing the boats that will take them to the limestone caves. Reports indicate that the jetty lacks proper railing and has sustained damages in multiple areas, posing a significant risk to tourists. To compensate for this, local residents had placed bamboo supports at both ends of the jetty during the visit of the Chief Secretary, which has also collapsed now. However, the floating section remains without any railing.

In the midst of this concern, Mr. R Alager Swamy, Zilla Parishad Member of Baratang Island, highlighted that Baratang is the second most popular tourist destination in the Andaman Islands. Over 500 tourists visit the limestone cave and engage in water activities. “Unfortunately, the current state of the floating jetty is far from ideal. During the recent visit of the Chief Secretary, the issue was brought to his attention, and he assured us that repairs would be carried out,” he said.

Andaman Sheekha Daily contacted a senior officer from the Directorate of IP and T, who confirmed that the department is fully aware of the matter and has accorded it top priority. The Chief Secretary is actively monitoring the situation, and plans are underway not only for repairing the floating jetty in Nilambur, Baratang but also for other tourism jetties, including Aberdeen jetty, Corbyn’s Cove, and North Bay jetty. Detailed assessments have been conducted, and the necessary repairs and replacements will be carried out promptly.

Member of Parliament takes up Anganwadi Workers’ Salary Issue with Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Administration

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Port Blair, May 18: The Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma along with a delegation of Anganwadi Workers called on the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Administration today.

During the meeting, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma emphatically highlighted the challenges faced by Anganwadi workers due to the meagre salary they are getting. He said that these dedicated workers, tirelessly serving their communities day and night, find it increasingly difficult to provide for their families under the current circumstances.

Recognizing the critical role played by Anganwadi workers in the welfare of society, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma emphasized the importance of supporting their efforts in collaboration with the Andaman and Nicobar Administration.

In the past also on several occasions, the Member of Parliament had consistently raised this matter both in the Parliament and with the concerned authorities viz on 10.02.2023, 13.02.2021, 10.02.2023, 04.12.2019 this issue was raised in Parliament, on 05.02.2021 matter taken up with the Minister of Women Child Development, 21.09.2020 matter taken up with the Prime Minister of India, 17.10.2021 matter taken up with Union Minister of Home Affairs.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary attentively listened to the concerns expressed by the Member of Parliament and the delegation and assured to do needful in this regard.

Massive Four-Meter-Long Crocodile Captured in Uttara Nallah of Middle Andaman

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John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Kadamtala, May 18: In a daring operation, the Wildlife Division of the Forest Department Kadamtala successfully captured a four-meter-long crocodile today from Uttara Nallah in Middle Andaman. The villagers had reported numerous sightings of the crocodile in the area for quite some time, and it was believed to have attacked domestic animals over the past couple of years.
Following the complaints, a team from the Forest Department took action in January 2023 by installing a specially designed cage and nets in the nallah with the intention of safely relocating the crocodile. However, despite multiple sightings over the past four months, the elusive reptile managed to escape from the spot every time.
Today, at approximately 5:00 AM, forest workers stationed in the area spotted a fully grown male crocodile, measuring an astonishing four meters in length, trapped within the installed cage. Swiftly, the information was relayed to the Forest Department, who promptly responded to the scene. To ensure the safety of both the crocodile and the local community, the captured reptile was later transferred to the Port Blair Biological Park.

Member of Parliament Commemorates Mother’s Day with Grand Celebration

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Port Blair, May 18: Mother’s Day was celebrated with great fervor at the office of the Member of Parliament, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma. The event witnessed the presence of esteemed senior women from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including Smti. Shanta Laxman Singh, Smti. Ratna Kannan, Smti. Pushpanjali Raju, Miss Mariyam Bibi and other prominent figures.

In his address, the Member of Parliament expressed heartfelt appreciation for the contributions and sacrifices made by mothers in raising their children. He emphasized the pivotal role played by mothers in shaping the character and guiding their children towards becoming outstanding members of society.

He said that to celebrate Mother’s Day in the best way, let us take a moment to honor the epitome of love, strength, and sacrifice in our lives – our beloved mothers. He said that Mothers are the pillars of our existence, the guiding lights that illuminate our paths, and the nurturing souls that shape our character.

He said that we all must cherish and celebrate our Mothers, not just for one day, but every day. “Express your love, gratitude, and appreciation. Remember, a mother’s love is immeasurable, and her influence everlasting,” he added.

Smti Sumitra Roy – Retd. Mukhiya Sevika, Smti. Chellama- Farmer, Smti. Laxmi Mandal – Auto Driver, Smti. Kiran Gupta- Tailor, Smti. Ayesha Biwi, Tailor, Smti Keshar- Beautician, Smti. Marthama- Retd. Headmistress shared their story of struggle and how they faced all challenges, which brought tears in everyone’s eyes.

The gathering witnessed an overwhelming response from individuals representing various fields, with a diverse audience present to honor and pay tribute to mothers on this special day. Mrs. Shanta Laxman Singh also took the opportunity to share her thoughts on the occasion, further enriching the celebration.

The Member of Parliament, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma expressed gratitude to all the attendees for joining in the Mother’s Day celebration. He acknowledged the tremendous influence of mothers in society and their unwavering commitment to nurturing future generations.

ANTCC President Demands for Granting Age Relaxation to Candidates applying for the posts of PGT, PET, Librarian, CI and PSRT

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Port Blair, May 18: The ANTCC President Mr. Rangalal Halder has demanded the Administration for granting age relaxation for the candidates applying in the posts recruited by the Directorate of Education.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, A & N Administration, Mr. Halder said that the eligibility criteria for the posts of PGT, PET, Librarian, CI and PSRT require the applicants to be below a certain age limit of not exceeding 30 years but there are many capable candidates who are eligible but missed out this opportunity solely due to their age.
He stated that these positions have not been recruited from 8 years and he believes that the age limit for these posts should be relaxed to allow the deserving candidates to apply for these positions.
He also emphasized on the Hard Work of the candidates to gain necessary qualifications and experiences for these positions. They have invested significant time, money, and effort to become eligible for these posts and it is only fair if they are given the opportunity to apply.
He further suggested to grant one time age relaxation of 5 years for both male and female to these positions as many of the deserving candidates have crossed the age limit; caused due to the delay in advertising those vacancies

Missing 14-Year-Old Boy Rescued at Middle Strait by Baratang Police

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John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, May 18: A heartwarming incident unfolded when a 14-year-old boy, who had gone missing, was found distressed at Middle Strait. The young boy was rescued by a dedicated team from Baratang Police Station, with the invaluable assistance of Sub Inspector Manoj Lall from the Police Training School (PTS).
According to reports, the minor boy is a resident of Parnasala, Rangat in the Middle Andaman area. He lived with his grandparents and, without informing his parents, ventured to Middle Strait on Monday morning. It was during this time that SI Manoj Lall spotted the child wandering alone, unaccompanied by any parents or guardians. Recognizing the need for immediate action, he swiftly rescued the young boy and, upon questioning, obtained crucial information.
The matter was promptly relayed to the Baratang Police Station, and the boy was subsequently taken there. The police team ensured that the child received nourishment and care. Meanwhile, SI Surjit Bhattacharjee, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Baratang, initiated a search to locate the boy’s parents. Following the necessary documentation, the child was safely transported to Rangat with the assistance of SI Manoj Lall. Counseling sessions were conducted for both the parents and the boy. Eventually, the police reunited the rescued boy with his relieved parents.
The villagers of the area were quick to acknowledge and appreciate the commendable efforts of SI Manoj Lall and the entire police team from Baratang and Rangat. Their swift action and dedication ensured the safe return of the missing child, bringing immense relief to his worried family.

 

Vishal Jolly Demands for Posting of Gynecologists for CHC, Diglipur

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Port Blair, May 18: Mr. Vishal Jolly National Executive Member BJP & Former State President BJP-ANI wrote a letter to Chief Secretary, A & N Administration for posting of Gynecologists for CHC, Diglipur by highlighting the sufferings of pregnant women’s living in Diglipur.
In his letter he wrote that a Gynecologist was posted at Diglipur, but once again a vacancy has arisen for the same post as a few months after joining, the said officer has left.
Further he informed that presently there is no Gynecologist posted for the entire Diglipur region, which is not only sad but also worrisome. A large chunk of population resides in that region and pregnant women residing at those areas are now again forced to travel to Port Blair for their medical interventions & delivery.
He also mentioned that at least two to four pregnant ladies travel in almost every helicopter flying between Diglipur to Port Blair, and this is only because of non-availability of Gynecologist at Diglipur.
Vishal Jolly requested the Chief Secretary for posting of at least one Gynecologist for CHC Diglipur, in the larger interest of people of that region.

Pradhan Gram Panchayat Ramnagar Meets DC & SP N&M Andaman

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Port Blair, May 18: A delegation from the Gram Panchayat Ramnagar, led by Mr. Mithun Das, Pradhan of the Gram Panchayat Ramnagar in Diglipur, met with Mr. Ankit Yadav, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of N&M Andaman, to address several issues concerning the Gram Panchayat Ramnagar.
During the meeting, Mr. Das emphasized the electricity problems faced by the residents of Ramnagar village due to continuous cable faults that have persisted for over three years. This has resulted in regular power cuts, causing inconvenience to the villagers. He also highlighted the shortage of an X-Ray technician and a permanent lab technician at PHC Kalighat, which has adversely affected the quality of emergency medical treatment available to the residents of Kalighat constituency.
The delegation also raised concerns about network disruptions at the BSNL tower in Ramnagar due to the absence of electricity supply and the lack of proper battery backup or functioning generator sets. They urged the Deputy Commissioner to address these issues.
In addition, Mr. Das requested the Deputy Commissioner to renovate the patwari quarter in Ramnagar and convert it into an E-PatwarKhana.
Assuring the delegation, the Deputy Commissioner NM pledged to address the fundamental demands raised by the Gram Panchayat Ramnagar team.
Furthermore, the delegation met with Mrs. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, Superintendent of Police N&M Andaman, to discuss future plans for engaging the younger generation in skill development and promoting their participation in extracurricular activities such as outdoor games and dance. These initiatives aim to provide a better future for the youth, free from mental stress and drug addiction in society.
During the meeting, the team also sought the assistance of the police department in combating the sale of illegal liquor and drugs within the jurisdiction of Ramnagar.
The Superintendent of Police N&M assured the Gram Panchayat Ramnagar team of the police department’s full support in addressing the various issues discussed during the meetings.

CITU Observes All India Protest Day at Port Blair

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Port Blair, May 18: As per the call given by the CITU and other organizations for the All India Protest Day in support of the ongoing agitation by the women wrestlers in Delhi, CITU Andaman & Nicobar State Committee organized a Mass Demonstration in front of the Port Blair Municipal Council at Aberdeen Bazar, Port Blair today (18.05.2023). Through the All India Protest Day, trade unions, farmers organizations, students and youth organizations all over the country demanded immediate arrest of Shri Brij Bushan Sharan Singh, BJP MP and Haryana Minister Shri Sandeep Singh and to stop sexual harassment and violence against women.

A large number of workers of Port Blair town participated in the Mass Demonstration at Port Blair which was led by R. Surendran Pillai, President, CITU State Committee, D.Laxman Rao, senior leader, Secretaries of CITU State Committee SP Kalairajan, P. Sathyapal, Anand Rajan and M. Yugandar.