John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Sept 14: In the aftermath of the recent collapse of the Panighat Jetty, a chorus of concern is resounding across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Islanders are united in their call for immediate safety audits of all antiquated jetties scattered across the archipelago, a demand rooted in the pressing necessity to safeguard the lives of both residents and visiting tourists, given the Islands’ susceptibility to seismic activity.
While the Panighat Jetty’s collapse did not result in any major casualties, it has evoked profound apprehension among the local populace. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards posed by insufficient safety precautions.
Commenting on the situation, one concerned resident emphasized, “We were fortunate this time that the Panighat Jetty collapse did not lead to significant casualties. However, relying solely on luck for our safety is not an acceptable course of action.”
In response to this growing concern, Andaman Sheekha reached out to the Chief Port Administrator of the Port Management Board recently. The CPA conveyed the gravity of the situation, assuring that the administration is taking the matter very seriously. An initial examination of the area has already been conducted, and a comprehensive report has been submitted to the administration.
He added that approximately 15 jetties across various parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been identified for in-depth assessments related to structural strength and technical safety. Furthermore, the administration is contemplating a scientific study, to be conducted by experts. To this end, the Department of Ocean Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, has been formally requested to investigate the matter and provide expert opinions on all 15 jetties.
