John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, June 18: The relentless monsoon rains have exacerbated the risk of landslides in numerous areas. Recently a section of Hilly Land in the Haddo Tamil Basti area, near Circuit House, collapsed, causing minor damages to few houses in the vicinity.
Now, anxiety looms over the fate of approximately eight houses in the area, as residents fear the impending heavy rainfall might subject them to severe damage caused by landslides.
The affected dwellings, already marked by cracks resulting from prior sliding incidents, have left the inhabitants feeling far from secure. “We are enduring sleepless nights,” expressed one distressed homeowner.
In response to the alarming news, Mr. Someshwar Rao, the Ward Councilor, urged the District Administration and other relevant authorities to visit the affected area for a comprehensive on-site assessment.
When contacted by Andaman Sheekha Daily, Mr. Someshwar Rao, the ward councilor, revealed that he has personally inspected the site. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, he highlighted that the area had experienced multiple landslides over the past five years.
Despite repeated appeals to the District Administration for the construction of a retaining wall to prevent further land movement, no substantial action was taken. Additionally, he underscored the existence of a climate relief fund in every state, leaving him perplexed as to why the concerns of the eight affected families had not been addressed. He emphasized the need to establish accountability in the event of a major landslide.
Local residents, who have long voiced their concerns to the District Administration regarding the construction of a retaining wall, are now grappling with the consequences of the authorities’ inaction, which has led to this disastrous situation.
Hope now rests on the swift construction of the much-needed retaining wall to ensure the safety and protection of the lives of those residing in the area. Immediate action is crucial to avert potential catastrophe and safeguard the well-being of the people affected by this precarious situation.
