John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Middle Andaman, July 10: The inhabitants of Lauki Nallah ward in the Swadesh Nagar area, Middle Andaman have voiced their urgent plea to the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, calling for the construction of a bridge in their village. The persistent demand for a bridge stems from the severe difficulties faced by residents due to the absence of a reliable crossing point to cross the Nallah.
The Lauki Nallah, which runs through the village, has become a major obstacle for the villagers in their daily lives. It effectively disconnects Lauki Nallah village from the rest of Swadesh Nagar, leaving the construction of a bridge as the only viable solution for improved connectivity. Sadly, for several decades, the residents have been forced to endure hardships while crossing the Nallah.
Expressing their frustration, the locals have criticized the apathetic attitude of the concerned authorities towards their genuine demand. The village, encompassing ward number 3 and 4, has a population of approximately 700, with a significant portion living below the poverty line. Residents lament the dire circumstances they face when medical emergencies arise. Due to the absence of a bridge and the poor condition of the roads, villagers are compelled to transport the sick on their shoulders to reach the nearest healthcare center, the PHC Billiground, which is several kilometers away.
Highlighting the risks involved, villagers stressed that their lives are in constant danger each time they attempt to cross the river. Mr. Debabrata Das, the Pradhan of the Gram Panchayat in Swadesh Nagar, expressed concern over the rising water levels during heavy rains, making it impossible for residents to navigate the river. Many individuals in the area perilously traverse the fast-flowing stream, putting their lives at risk. Villagers have repeatedly appealed for the construction of a concrete bridge to alleviate their sufferings.
He added that previously, the Public Works Department (PWD) had approved the construction of a steel bridge, and a tender was awarded for the project. However, due to various reasons, the work could not commence. Finally, in 2021, a company initiated the construction work and began the layout process. Unfortunately, the forest department reportedly raised objections, claiming that a portion of the approach road and the proposed bridge site fell under the jurisdiction of a reserve forest. To resolve this issue, the district administration took steps by visiting the site on October 13, 2022. The Deputy Commissioner of Middle Andaman engaged in discussions with villagers to understand their requirements and subsequently directed the construction of an RCC bridge instead of a steel bridge. The work estimate and plan have already been submitted to the relevant authorities, yet there have been delays in initiating the construction.
All the villagers of Lauki Nallah are now requesting the Andaman and Nicobar administration and the PWD to commence the construction work as soon as possible. It is imperative that immediate action be taken to address the long-standing grievances of the residents and ensure their safety, well-being, and enhanced connectivity with the rest of the region.
