John Wilbert &Vikramaditya
Port Blair, May 14: Tour operators have expressed their concern over the terrible state of the floating jetty at Nilambur Jetty in the Baratang Islands. The floating jetty is used by tourists going to the limestone cave via mangrove, and its damaged state has become a potential threat to visiting tourists.
Daily, over 400 tourists visit the Baratang Islands, and using the floating jetty is the only way for them to reach the boats for limestone caves. According to reports there is no railing on the jetty, and it has suffered damages in several places, posing a serious risk to tourists. Local residents have put some bamboo on both sides of the entrance of the Jetty for support but the floating part has no such railing.
Meanwhile, Zilla Parishad Member of Baratang Island, Mr. R Alager Swamy, told Andaman Sheekha Daily that Baratang is the second most visited place by tourists in the Andaman Islands. Over 500 tourists visit the limestone cave and enjoy water activities, but the current state of the floating jetty is not good.
In 2016, the floating jetty was constructed by ALHW department, with funds provided by the Tourism Department. However, due to a lack of proper maintenance, many parts of the jetty have become damaged. On behalf of the Panchayat of Baratang and the tour operators, Mr. Swamy requested that the Tourism Department and ALHW to replace the floating jetty with a new one.
The poor condition of the floating jetty not only affects the safety of tourists but also impacts the tourism industry in the region. Therefore, it is crucial that immediate action is taken to repair or replace the floating jetty to ensure the safety and comfort of tourists visiting the Baratang Islands.
