Car Nicobar, Sept. 21:The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the much-awaited Mus Seawall Construction Project at Car Nicobar from Bhavnagar, Gujarat yesterday. An event marking the occasion was also conducted at Mus, Car Nicobar in the presence of the Member of Parliament, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, senior district officials including the Deputy Commissioner of Car Nicobar, Mr. Amit Kale, the Superintendent of Police, Mr. Rahul Nair, the Secretary, Tribal Council, Mr. Martin Luther, representatives of the Tribal Council, Village Captains, officials of Government Departments at Car Nicobar, school children, and a large gathering of local residents.
The function began with the traditional welcome of dignitaries by local cultural groups. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the presentation of bouquets to the guests. A melodious welcome song was then presented, adding vibrance and joy to the atmosphere.
Thereafter, a detailed technical briefing on the project was delivered by Smt. Mamta Jijith, Deputy Chief Engineer, ALHW. She explained that the Mus Seawall will be 450 meters long and constructed at an estimated cost of Rs.47 crore. The seawall will employ advanced coastal protection technologies, including tetrapods, which are designed to absorb wave energy and protect the shoreline from erosion.
This was followed by an address from the Tribal Captain, Mr. Martin Luther, who emphasized that the project would provide long-term protection to local habitations, roads, and livelihoods. The Member of Parliament, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, in his address, described the project as a true reflection of the vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas.’
The programme then moved to a cultural segment, where local artists showcased the rich Nicobarese tribal traditions alongside themes of national unity, which received much appreciation from the audience.
The gathering witnessed the live telecast of the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi’s programme from Bhavnagar, Gujarat, which was received with great enthusiasm and applause by the entire gathering.
Importance of the Project
The Mus region has long been vulnerable to severe coastal erosion and cyclonic storms. Repeated sea surges have caused considerable damage to habitations, public infrastructure, and livelihood activities. The seawall project is a crucial intervention expected to:
– Provide long-term protection to coastal villages;
– Prevent recurring damage to public infrastructure;
– Safeguard fishing, agriculture, and other livelihoods;
– Ensure a safer and more sustainable future for younger generations.
A Tribute to the Prime Minister’s Vision
The gathering collectively expressed their deep gratitude to the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi for his visionary leadership. It is under his development-oriented approach that remote island territories like Nicobar are now being connected more closely with the national mainstream. The Mus Seawall Project stands as a testament to the Government of India’s commitment to inclusive growth, coastal protection, and the well-being of island communities.
