John Wilbert
Port Blair, Apr 16: The most awaited bridge of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Middle Strait bridge, might not become a reality by 2020, as it was promised by National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) earlier.
While the construction work of the bridge over Humphery Strait is progressing ahead with visible speed but for Middle Strait bridge, even the forest clearing work has not started yet.
Sources in NHIDCL, on the condition of anonymity told Andaman Sheekha that due to non-receipt of CRZ clearance the work could not be started yet.
Knowing well that such delay may have adverse impact in 2019 LS elections, the lone Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr Bishnu Pada Ray met Dr. Harshvardhan, Minister of Forest & Environment recently and apprised the Minister that out of two major bridges, one each on the creek of Middle Strait and Humphrey Strait, the work for construction of Bridge on the creek of Middle Strait is delayed due to non-receipt of CRZ clearance from the Ministry.
He further added that construction of the two bridges on National Highway is very important for not only in view of merely provision of road connectivity, but also for strategic importance and over all development of A & N Islands.
Dr. Harshavardhan, Minister of Forest & Environment has reportedly assured to expedite the matter for releasing the CRZ clearance for construction of bridge on the creek of Middle Strait.
Construction of Middle Strait and Humphery Strait bridges in Middle Andaman were announced by Modi Government as these two bridges has huge economical, political and strategic importance.
As China’s presence close to North Andaman’s Coco Island is a big threat to India, in case of any attack these two bridges will help Indian armed forces to shift Jawans, all arms and ammunitions to North Andaman in no time.
