Archives for August 22, 2023

John Wilbert & Vikramaidtya
Kadamtala, Aug 22: The Primary Health Center (PHC) situated in Kadamtala is the lifeline of healthcare for the entire Kadamtala region. However, a dilapidated Generator Set (DG Set) that has remained unrepaired for the past two years is casting a shadow over patient care. With the DG Set out of order, the hospital is facing critical power outages during electricity shutdowns, posing a grave challenge to patient well-being.
The persistent issue of power cuts in the South Andaman District is no secret, and government establishments typically rely on DG Sets for backup power. Hospitals, in particular, require this backup to ensure the continuity of care for patients who are already grappling with health issues.
Mr. Prakash Mondal, the Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Uttara informed Andaman Sheekha daily that the DG Set at PHC Kadamtala has been prone to frequent malfunctions, causing huge inconvenience to patients and revealing a maintenance shortfall on the part of the administration.
He expressed concern over the plight of patients and noted instances when power failures resulted in disruptions to medical procedures, hampering patient care. “The hospital is the site of numerous medical activities, especially during the rainy season. However, the faulty generator impedes these essential functions,” he lamented.
The issue has not gone unnoticed by local authorities. During previous visits, both the Chief Secretary and the Secretary of Health were apprised of the matter. In response, they assured the hospital’s administration of a replacement DG Set. However, the onset of the monsoon season brought new challenges. The entire Kadamtala area, including the hospital, suffered from electricity issues during heavy rainfall. Villagers of the region are now hoping that soon the Administration will send a new Generator Set for the power backup facilities of the PHC.

John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Aug 22: The South Andaman district witnessed a significant upheaval as the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC) with the help of the District Administration and police jointly conducted an eviction drive targeting street vendors on Saturday night. The move resulted in the removal of around 22 street vendor stalls from their locations.
While the eviction itself was executed within the bounds of the legal framework, the manner in which it unfolded and its subsequent viral circulation on social media have stirred discontent among the public.
Reports reveal that some street vendors and their workers gathered in front of the PBMC office around 11 AM this morning. Supported by some public leaders, they demanded a permanent solution for street vendors’ predicament, including license approvals. They also sought the return of their materials that were confiscated during the eviction, citing damages and requesting compensation.
In response to the mounting tensions, Councillor of Ward Number 04, Mr. Abdul Islam, along with Councillor of Ward Number 19, Mr. V Vetrivelu, Councillor of Ward Number 10, Mrs. T Mangayakarasai, and Congress Leader Mr. Tamil Selvam, rallied in support of the vendors. Mr. Abdul Islam informed that discussions were held with PBMC’s Secretary, Dilkush Meena IAS today.
According to Mr. Islam, the Secretary reportedly provided a positive response and pledged to investigate the matter. Furthermore, the vendors were granted permission to conduct business for a limited three-hour period without disrupting traffic flow, ensuring order and discipline.
Meanwhile, the rise in the number of street vendors has triggered traffic congestion concerns, compounded by outsiders participating in these enterprises. While the necessity for well-regulated street vending practices is acknowledged, the abrupt removal of shops has raised questions. Calls for the Administration to establish robust guidelines, ensuring transparency and fair practices, have grown louder. This incident has sparked broader conversations about the need for a systematic and ethical approach to managing street vending activities.