Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept 02: Mr. Manojit Halder , Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Harinagar, along with Mr. Dilip Kumar Das , Panchayat Samiti Member (PSM), and Mr. Anil Baroi , Up-Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Swadeshnagar, met Mr. Gyanesh Bharti , IAS, the newly appointed Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, on 01.09.2026. The PRI representatives warmly welcomed and honoured the Chief Secretary by presenting him with a bouquet and a traditional shawl. During the meeting, the PRI representatives submitted a detailed representation highlighting several long-pending developmental and public welfare issues affecting the local population. A major issue discussed was the long-awaited construction of the Korangnallah Dam.
The PRI representatives informed the Chief Secretary that this vital infrastructure project has remained pending for nearly 40 years, despite several official site visits and surveys conducted by technical agencies over the years. It was emphasized that the construction of the dam would provide a permanent and sustainable drinking water solution to residents of eight Gram Panchayats, stretching from Mayabunder to Swadeshnagar. The project would also significantly benefit the agricultural sector by ensuring a reliable source of irrigation water for local farmers.
Mr. Anil Baroi, Up-Pradhan, Gram Panchayat Swadeshnagar, also raised a serious public safety concern regarding hazardous trees and overhanging branches along the village road at Shantipur. He pointed out that a joint inspection had earlier been conducted by officials of the Revenue Department, APWD, and Forest Department. Subsequently, the Assistant Commissioner had issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to APWD approximately three years ago for necessary action.
However, despite the passage of considerable time, no action has been taken to trim or clear the dangerous branches, which continue to pose a serious risk to commuters, particularly during storms and adverse weather conditions. Mr. Manojit Halder further brought to the notice of the Chief Secretary the poor and dilapidated condition of the staff quarters at PHC Billyground.
Although four doctors are presently posted at the health centre, the residential quarters, which are approximately 40 years old, have become uninhabitable and require immediate and comprehensive renovation.
The Chief Secretary gave a patient hearing to all the issues raised by the PRI representatives and reportedly assured that the matters would be reviewed and considered for appropriate and swift resolution. The PRI representatives expressed their sincere gratitude to Mr. Gyanesh Bharti , IAS, Chief Secretary, for his prompt attention, patient hearing, and commitment towards addressing the developmental needs and welfare concerns of rural communities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
