Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 21:Public resentment continues to grow in the Rangat region following the damage to the Hawa Mahal Bridge — a crucial link connecting North and Middle Andaman. The bridge, which partially suffered damages early morning of 19 October 2025 due to a landslide beneath it, has severely disrupted vehicular movement for several hours before authorities initiated temporary repairs.
According to sources, one side of the bridge caved in after heavy soil erosion, prompting officials to lay a temporary passage using soil and safety materials. Locals, however, have expressed concern that this “stopgap arrangement” may not last long and could pose a serious threat if permanent repair work is not undertaken immediately.
Today, PRI members including the Pradhan of Dashratpur, the Pramukh, and a few villagers met the Assistant Commissioner, Rangat, demanding immediate repair of the Hawa Mahal Bridge and construction of the Dashratpur village road. “We had raised this issue several times at the Tehsildar and AC offices. Even today, we urged the Assistant Commissioner urging quick action,” said one PRI member.
Residents from Kausalya Nagar to Betapur also alleged poor performance by the contractor engaged for maintenance. Taking note of the matter, the Assistant Commissioner reportedly directed NHIDCL contractors to initiate urgent repair measures without delay.
