Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Feb 14: The tenure of Mr. Sanjay Singh, as Adhyaksh South Andaman Zilla Parishad, is rapidly nearing its end, marking the conclusion of his one-year term as the Adhyaksh. In this regard, Mr. Sanjay Singh spoke to Andaman Sheekha Daily, where he highlighted his accomplishments during his tenure.
Reflecting on his one-year term, Mr. Singh emphasized that he ensured the implementation of development projects in every area under the purview of the South Andaman Zilla Parishad. Taking office on March 19, 2023, Mr. Singh now finds himself in the final month of his tenure. Expressing contentment, he noted that in just a few weeks, his term would come to a fulfilling conclusion.
Mr. Singh proudly stated that during his tenure, all 18 members of the South Andaman Zilla Parishad actively contributed to the development initiatives. He asserted that no member could claim to have been idle during his tenure, whether their tasks were significant or minor. Mr. Singh stressed that he strived to allocate work to every member of the Zilla Parishad, irrespective of their sector or area of influence. He believes that this marks a historic period for the Andaman Islands, where every member received assignments within the one-year term, ensuring active participation and contribution.
Addressing concerns of corruption or favoritism, Mr. Singh issued a challenge to verify if any council member engaged in unethical practices such as bribery or nepotism. He affirmed that his tenure would stand as a shining chapter in the history of the South Andaman Zilla Parishad, free from any taint of malpractice.
Looking ahead, Mr. Singh expressed confidence in the future Adhyaksh, urging them to uphold the standards set during his tenure. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a five-year plan for the South Andaman Zilla Parishad’s activities, ensuring efficient and transparent governance.
As his term draws to a close, Mr. Singh expressed satisfaction with his achievements, believing he has delivered justice to his position by allocating work fairly and ensuring productive outcomes. He highlighted various projects initiated during his tenure, ranging from the construction of school classrooms to eco-friendly initiatives and community development projects.
Archives for February 14, 2024
Member of Parliament Inaugurates Community Hall for Washermen Community at Dhobighat, Prem Nagar
Port Blair, Feb14: Shri Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, inaugurated a community hall for the washermen community at Dhobighat, Prem Nagar, Port Blair. This community hall, constructed under the MPLADS scheme, fulfils a long-pending demand of the washermen community.
The newly inaugurated community hall is expected to provide a conducive environment for washermen to carry out their work efficiently, ensuring their well-being and contributing to the overall progress of Dhobighat. The community hall will also provide a place for rest for washermen.
Speaking at the inauguration, Shri Kuldeep Rai Sharma expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the development of Dhobighat. He emphasized the importance of providing essential amenities and infrastructure for the welfare of the local communities. The new community hall will serve as a shelter for washermen to work comfortably, especially during harsh weather conditions like scorching heat or heavy rain.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by many guests including Smti. Amar Devi, Councillor of Ward No. 7 of the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC).
Pradhan Harinagar demands Urgent Action to Address Public Grievances Regarding NH-4 Development
Port Blair, Feb 14: In a letter addressed to the Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Harinagar has raised critical concerns regarding the ongoing development work on National Highway 4 (NH-4) within their jurisdiction. The letter highlights several pressing issues faced by the residents that urgently require intervention to ensure their well-being and the smooth functioning of essential services.
One major concern outlined in the letter is the blockage of drains alongside NH-4 during the earthwork execution. This obstruction has led to the submergence of vital facilities such as the Government Middle School in Billiground, shops at Billiground Bazar area, and residential houses in villages, particularly during the rainy season. The stagnant water poses threats to the safety and well-being of residents, adversely affecting their daily lives and the students’ commute to school. The Pradhan urgently requests intervention to expedite the clearance of drains and construct footpaths along both sides of NH-4, particularly at Billiground Bazar, under Gram Panchayat Harinagar’s jurisdiction.
Additionally, the letter highlights the absence of a suitable toilet block near the existing bus stand adjacent to the Panchayat Bhawan. The Pradhan requests assistance in constructing a Modern Technology Toilet Block cum Bus Stand beside NH-4 near Panchayat Bhawan to ensure the convenience and hygiene of residents and visitors in the area.
Furthermore, the Panchayat emphasizes the need for the construction of three modern bus queue shelters at specific locations along NH-4 to enhance convenience for residents and visitors.
According to the Pradhan despite numerous requests to concerned authorities, both in writing and verbally, no action has been taken, exacerbating community issues. The Pradhan stresses the critical need for immediate steps to address these grievances and mitigate potential damage.
Bambooflat Zilla Parishad Member Raises Concern over Delay in Islander Smart Card Issuance
Port Blair, Feb 14: Bambooflat, South Andaman – Miss V. K. Mariyam Bibi, the Zilla Parishad member of the Bambooflat constituency, has officially addressed a significant concern to the Deputy Commissioner of South Andaman regarding the prolonged delay in the issuance of new Islander smart cards. This issue has adversely affected approximately 3,000 residents within the Ferrargunj Tehsil, who have been awaiting the transition from the old Islander cards to the new smart card format since September 2023.
The delay has caused widespread inconvenience and distress among the residents, many of whom have approached Miss Mariyam Bibi seeking updates and explanations regarding the status of their smart card applications. In her pursuit to resolve the matter, Miss Mariyam Bibi engaged with officials at the Ferrargunj Tehsil office, where it was discovered that although all required documentation had been submitted to the Deputy Commissioner’s office, the printed smart cards have not yet been distributed.
The Islander smart card is a critical tool for residents, facilitating access to various essential services and entitlements. Miss Mariyam Bibi has urgently called for the Deputy Commissioner and the relevant departments to prioritize this matter and expedite the printing and distribution of the new smart cards. Her proactive stance underscores the immediate need for action to alleviate the concerns and anxieties of the affected residents, ensuring they can access the services and entitlements they are entitled to without further delay.
Adhyaksh, Zilla Parishad laid Foundation stone for the work Construction of Rural Road with side Drain
Port Blair, Feb 14: The Adhyaksh Zilla Parishad, South Andaman, Mr. Sanjay Kumar Singh laid the foundation stone for ‘Construction of Rural Road with side Drain from Mr. Periyaswamy House to Mr. K. Srinivasan House at Calicut village, Ward No. 1 on 13th February 2024, in presence of Mr. S.Boominathan, Up- Adhyaksh, ZPSA Mr. T. Yaghambaram, Pradhan, GP Calicut, Mr. D. Satya Narayan, Up-Pramukh Panchayat Samiti Prothrapur and Mr. R. Retheesh Kumar, Sarpanch, Gram Panchayat Calicut in presence of large number of local people of the area. Construction of this rural road was a long pending demand of the residents of the area, construction of which will be taken up immediately.
The World’s Biggest Bird-a-thon comes to India!
Port Blair, Feb 14: During the four days between 16 and 19 February, more than a thousand birdwatchers throughout India will come together with the goal of documenting as many birds as possible across the country’s diverse locations.
Over one lakh birdwatchers globally participate in the annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), and last year India not only ranked as the second-highest contributing country worldwide, but also discovered more bird species than any other!
In 2023, India proudly secured the third position globally for number of reported species, closely following Colombia and Ecuador. Additionally, it claimed the second spot for number of uploaded bird lists, trailing after the United States. Among the most frequently observed birds in India were the Himalayan Bulbul in the Himalayas, House Crow in both the north and the south, Red-vented Bulbul in the eastern and central regions, Feral Pigeon in the west, and Plume-toed Swift in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
GBBC not only serves as a delightful event for novice and seasoned birdwatchers alike, but also contributes to citizen science, aiding in understanding the status of avian populations in India. As Amrit Raha, a passionate birdwatcher from Port Blair aptly expressed, “Participating in the ANI Bird Race during this GBBC & CBC event has become a delightful way for me to contribute to a greater cause while enjoying the process. Reflecting on my journey, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my birding skills. Over the years, ANI Bird Race has heightened my awareness of the rich avian life in my immediate surroundings. From the distinctive calls of the Andaman Crake to the vibrant plumage of the Andaman Woodpecker, I’ve started to recognize and appreciate the diverse bird species inhabiting these islands. Whether it’s the swift flight of the Nicobar pigeon or the melodious songs of the Andaman Bulbul, my days are now filled with fascinating avian encounters. The post-noon spectacle of White-bellied Sea Eagles soaring or the evening gatherings of Andaman Drongos and Black-naped Orioles creating a symphony of colors has become a regular sight from my vantage point. It’s evident that one doesn’t need to be in a designated birding hotspot to observe and appreciate the captivating habits and behaviors of Andaman’s feathered residents.”
Arun Singh, the seasoned Andaman Islands bird guide, skillfully reveals the secrets of the region’s avian wonders. “With rich expertise, he transforms birding expeditions into captivating journeys, passionately sharing insights. His keen appraisal of the Andaman Islands’ avian fauna fosters a deep appreciation for conservation among enthusiasts. Arun goes beyond identification, weaving vibrant narratives that bring each bird to life, creating a harmonious connection between people and the diverse birdlife of the Andamans.”
GBBC in India is coordinated by Bird Count India, an umbrella group of a large number of birding, nature and conservation organisations.
Participants are encouraged to list all bird species seen at a particular location over a period of 15 minutes or more, at any time during the four days, and upload the list to the bird recording platform eBird, which makes checklist creation easier This can be repeated as often as possible. During GBBC, a lot of local birdwatching walks and talks are planned across the country for the public to join in.
‘College and other campuses across India unite to watch birds’
Along with GBBC, campuses across India also take part in the sister event “Campus Bird Count”, aimed at monitoring bird populations in educational and institutional campuses. Outside protected areas such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, these institutions are becoming increasingly vital habitats for our wildlife.
Dr. MG Madhanan, Assistant Director at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and passionate researcher in Andaman Flora & Fauna, fondly recalls his inaugural participation in such events. Those initial days were pivotal, etching indelible lessons that continue to guide his trajectory in biodiversity research. Since 2015, he remains steadfast, recognizing the value of systematic monitoring alongside a community of dedicated individuals. Dr. Madhanan emphasizes the importance of inspiring others to perceive the unique flora and fauna of the Andamans through an informed lens, turning each survey and event into a profound contribution to scientific understanding and conservation.
The global GBBC is organised by Cornell University and the Audubon Society in the USA.
About Bird Count India
Bird Count India is a consortium of organisations and groups working together to increase the collective knowledge about bird distributions and populations. The partnership conducts periodic bird-related events and activities, offers support and resources to birding groups for conducting their own events, and provides information on bird monitoring.
Amendment in Sailing Programme of MV Kalighat for Car Nicobar via Little Andaman on 15.02.2024
Port Blair, Feb 14: This is for the information of the passengers/general public that due to administrative reasons the announced sailing programme of the vessel MV Kalighat for Car Nicobar via Little Andaman on 15.02.2024 at 0700 Hrs from Port Blair and her return voyage on 16.02.2024 at 0800 Hrs from Car Nicobar to Port Blair via Little Andaman has been revised. As such the announced schedule of MV Kalighat from Port Blair to Little Andaman on 15.02.2024 has been cancelled.
Now, the vessel MV Kalighat will sail for Campbell Bay via Car Nicobar on 15.02.2024 at 1600 Hrs from Haddo Wharf and will sail back to Port Blair on 17.02.2024 at 1200 Hrs from Campbell Bay via Car Nicobar & Little Andaman. Little Andaman bound passengers those who have purchased their tickets in MV Kalighat are advised to avail the sailing of MV Bharat Seema with the same ticket which is scheduled to sail for Little Andaman on 15.02.2024 at 2000 Hrs. from Haddo Wharf.
Similarly, passengers those who are holding the tickets of MV Kalighat for return voyage from Car Nicobar/Little Andaman to Port Blair for earlier schedule. i.e. on 16.02.2024 are advised to avail the sailing of MV Kalighat with the same ticket on 18.02.2024 from respective ports.
Supplementary Seva Suchnayein All the Sailings are Subject to Weather Conditions Inter Island Sector
Port Blair, Feb 14: MV Bharat Seema will sail for Little Andaman on 15.02.2024 (Thu) at 2000 Hrs from Haddo Wharf and will sail for Port Blair on 16.02.2024 (Fri) at 0800 Hrs from Little Andaman.
Passenger tickets for the above sailing will be issued to the general public on 15.02.2024 (Thursday). Passengers may book their tickets from the DSS e-ticketing portal (https://dss.andaman.gov.in/eticketing) and from STARS Ticketing Counter from 09.00 AM to 04.00 PM.
Further to inform that, Little Andaman bound passengers those who are holding the tickets of MV Kalighat earlier scheduled for Car Nicobar via Little Andaman on 15.02.2024 at 0700 Hrs from Port Blair are advised to avail the above sailing of MV Bharat Seema with the same ticket.