Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 16: Former Member of Parliament, Kuldeep Rai Sharma, has requested the Chief Secretary to consider a proposal aimed at enhancing the connectivity to Little Andaman Island by reducing the travel time for ferries. This initiative, he believes, will significantly benefit local tourism, trade, and the daily lives of the islanders.
At present, ferries operate between Phoenix Bay and Hut Bay, with a journey time of approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it difficult for tourists and islanders to return on the same day. In contrast, ferry services to nearby islands like Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island) allow for return trips on the same day.
He suggested that operating ferries from Phongi Balu Jetty, instead of Phoenix Bay, would significantly reduce the travel time to Little Andaman, bringing it down to about half. This change, he emphasized, would allow for same-day return trips, greatly enhancing the island’s accessibility and attracting more tourists.
This change will not only improve convenience for tourists but also boost local trade and create new employment opportunities for the residents of Guptapur Panchayat. In addition, it will make Little Andaman a more attractive destination for visitors, thereby contributing to the region’s economic growth, he said.
He requested to conduct a feasibility study on the proposal and, if found practical, to implement it. He believes that this initiative could play a vital role in promoting sustainable tourism while enhancing the quality of life for the people of Little Andaman.
The proposal, if implemented, is expected to improve both tourism and connectivity, providing a boost to the local economy, creating jobs, and promoting the region as an even more attractive destination for tourists from across the country and beyond.
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