D J Venkatesh
Port Blair, April 01: Some destinations in Diglipur, North Andaman can attract globetrotters. But garbage, lack of basic amenities and lack of proper signage are turning tourists away from these locations. Lamiya Bay, located 25 km from Diglipur Bazar, is famous for tranquil seas and polished stones at the shore.
The site is easily accessible for tourists who visit Ross and Smith Island. But lack of proper upkeep and maintenance has been deterring tourists to visit the spot.
According to reports, the site lacks proper signages and an approach road to the beach, which is also a turtle nesting site. Huge pile of garbage is another issue that dissuades tourists from visiting the site.
For promotion of tourism at Lamiya Bay, the Forest Department has constructed some eco-friendly huts and a Watch Tower, probably the best in North Andaman. But visitors decry lack of eco-friendly huts and an approach road through the fields at Pebble Beach.
Though consuming liquor in public places is punishable under law, one can easily notice empty beer and liquor bottles spread throughout the beach. Besides, the Forest Department has also failed to deploy staff for guidance of the tourists at the spot.
“The spots have immense potential to be developed as top tourist attractions. People visiting Ross and Smith and Kalipur beach can also visit Lamiya Bay and Pebble beach in one package. But lack of basic amenities and insanitation has emerged key reasons for the poor response from visitors. The spots are stained with garbage at almost all locations. Heaps of garbage remains unattended for days and those venturing into the area are forced to bear the stench emanating from the trash. The Tourism and Forest Department should collaborate and take necessary steps for the development of these potential sites,” say some tour operators.
The Administration is planning to open some new Islands for tourists but what about the existing ones, who will take care of these existing beaches? If the Administration is unable to maintain existing beaches how come the Administration will ensure proper upkeep of newly opened beaches?
