Vikramaditya
Mayabunder, May 30: In a major development aimed at addressing several long-pending issues of North and Middle Andaman, the Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members from various panchayats of Mayabunder block convened a vital meeting today with the Deputy Commissioner of North & Middle Andaman. The meeting was held at the DC office in Mayabunder.
Speaking after the meeting, PRI members expressed appreciation for the platform and emphasized the importance of this collective initiative. They highlighted that such meetings were crucial to addressing local governance and infrastructure concerns that have remained unresolved for several years. The meeting brought together PRI members from nearly every panchayat in Mayabunder, with only a few absentees due to travel commitments. The DC’s office had served official letters to ensure full participation, and the members responded positively to the call.
Talking to Andaman Sheekha Daily, Mr. Debobrata Das the Pradhan of Swadesh Nagar said that among the key issues raised during the discussion was the condition of the Mayabunder District Hospital. Several PRI members shared their dissatisfaction over inadequate facilities and infrastructure at the hospital, calling it a sensitive and urgent issue. The DC took note of these concerns and assured that corrective measures would be taken promptly to address the deficiencies and improve healthcare services in the region.
Another pressing concern discussed was the disruption of shipping services between Port Blair and Kolkata. With a significant Bengali population spread across Diglipur to Baratang, many families and traders have faced immense hardship due to the absence of regular passenger and cargo ships from Kolkata. The lack of connectivity has not only affected personal travel but has also severely hampered local businesses. Traders are unable to import goods from Kolkata, leading to increased costs and reduced profit margins. “This is a blow to our livelihoods,” said Mr. Das, underscoring the gravity of the issue.
The deteriorating condition of National Highway 4 (NH-4) also featured prominently in the discussions. Mr. Das added that due to recent rains, several sections of the road have become damaged and unsafe. The PRI members urged the DC to ensure immediate repairs and maintenance. In response, the DC assured that damaged roads and potholes would be repaired without delay and that even roads already constructed but found lacking would be reviewed for necessary improvements.
Several members raised concerns about delayed works under the MGNREGA scheme. The DC reportedly responded by assuring the members that she would escalate the matter to the concerned ministries and make efforts to get stalled projects restarted at the earliest. In addition to infrastructure and employment concerns, administrative delays were also highlighted. As per details another PRI representative voiced her frustration over the delay in the appointment of an Executive PRI (E-PRI) member following the retirement of the previous official. The PRI member noted that such delays set back development work significantly, stating, “A delay of even one day in the PRI system equals a delay of one month.”
The meeting also served as a preparatory step ahead of the upcoming District Planning Committee (DPC) session. PRI members emphasized the need for timely submission of major projects—such as construction of bridges, community halls, and other large infrastructure—that are beyond the scope of local bodies. They urged the administration to forward the outcomes of the upcoming DPC meeting to NITI Aayog via the Member of Parliament, so that much-needed funds can be allocated to the region.
