Port Blair, June 13: The Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, has requested the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Administration to start direct ferry from Port Blair to Long Island on alternative days to promote tourism of Long Island
In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, the Member of Parliament mentioned that despite its breathtaking beaches and natural charm, Long Island is still struggling to establish itself as a major player in the tourism industry.
He pointed out that with a population of nearly 2000 people, Long Island faced a setback when the Kitply Industry was shut down, leading to a large number of residents leaving the Island. “Consequently, the local economy suffered a severe blow. Although various initiatives have been undertaken to promote tourism in the Island, the challenge of reaching Long Island has dissuaded potential tourists from visiting, resulting in stagnant growth in the tourism sector,” he added.
To truly unlock the tourism potential of Long Island, the Member of Parliament requested to start a direct ferry from Port Blair to Long Island on alternative days to promote tourism of Long Island. “This service can later be made daily during peak Tourism season,” he added.
He added that by having a dedicated ferry that remains on standby at Long Island throughout the day, tourists would have the convenience of returning to Port Blair in the evening on the same vessel.
The Member of Parliament mentioned that such regular ferry service would undoubtedly result in an increase in tourist footfall to Long Island. Subsequently, this influx of visitors would encourage the establishment of hotels and other accommodations on the Island, thus providing a much-needed boost to the local economy. Moreover, the growth in the tourism sector would create numerous job opportunities for the residents of Long Island and nearby Rangat Islands.
