Ganeshan & Vikramaditya
Baratang, Nov 23: Zilla Parishad Member of Baratang, Mr. R. Alager Swami, highlighted a series of long-pending developmental issues during a meeting held with the Chief Secretary and the Deputy Commissioner of South Andaman, who is also holding the charge of DC, North and Middle Andaman and other Senior officers. The meeting held at APWD guest house of Baratang.
Mr. Swami said that his primary concern was the continuing electricity crisis in Baratang and nearby villages. He also raised the issue of poor road conditions, especially the damaged village roads in Khatta-Khadi and surrounding areas.
One of the major demands presented was the immediate establishment of a dialysis unit in Baratang, as nearly 15 patients from Baratang and several others from Kadamtala are forced to travel to Port Blair for treatment, often staying in rented rooms or lodges along with attendants. The Chief Secretary reportedly acknowledged the issue and agreed that Baratang requires its own dialysis facility.
Mr. Swami further raised the long-pending matter of reopening the Tagore Quarry, which has remained closed since 1994. The Chief Secretary reportedly directed the Forest and Revenue departments, along with the AC Rangat, to expedite the paperwork and take immediate steps to restart the quarry.
He also highlighted the lack of a school playground for the children of Baratang, despite a 5-hectare land allotment made in 1995 during the tenure of former Lt. Governor Mr. Vakkam Purushotaman. He said several talented children from the region excel in football, hockey, and other sports, yet they have no proper ground to practice. The Chief Secretary personally inspected the site.
Additional issues such as joint inspection of disputed lands in Baratang, forest–revenue clearance delays, PF matters, and village notification concerns were also discussed.
Mr. Swami expressed satisfaction after the meeting, saying he is hopeful that the Chief Secretary’s visit and directions would soon lead to concrete results for the people of Baratang.
