V Senthil Kumar
Rangat, March 29: With the situation now returning to normal along the NH-4, there is a growing demand from commuters and local residents to increase the number of convoy timings between Jirkatang and Middle Strait.
At present, limited convoy movements are causing long hours of waiting at convoy gates, leading to heavy traffic congestion and extended queues of vehicles on both sides. Daily commuters, transport operators, and passengers traveling between Rangat, Mayabunder, Kadamtala, and Port Blair are facing significant inconvenience due to the reduced frequency of convoys.
Residents have pointed out that vehicular movement has increased considerably in recent months, including buses, private vehicles, and goods carriers. However, the convoy system continues to operate with only four timings on each side, which is no longer sufficient to handle the current traffic volume.
It has been suggested that increasing the convoy timings from four to six on both sides would help in reducing waiting time, easing congestion, and ensuring smoother travel for the public. The move is also expected to improve connectivity between North and Middle Andaman regions.
Passengers have urged the concerned authorities to review the present system and take immediate steps to enhance convoy frequency, keeping in mind the growing transportation needs of the region.
If implemented, the increase in convoy timings would significantly reduce traffic buildup at key points such as Jirkatang, Middle Strait and Baratang, providing much-needed relief to thousands of daily commuters.
