Mayabunder, June 25: The residents of Mayabunder are facing severe difficulties due to the worsening condition of the district road connecting Neemtala Danapur to Burmadeera. The stretch, measuring approximately 2 kilometers, has become a hazard for daily commuters due to numerous large potholes, uneven surfaces, and the lack of any visible maintenance work. The poor road condition is not only causing vehicle damage and traffic risks but also affecting the livelihoods of unemployed youth who run transport services in the area.
In response to the persistent neglect, Mr. Abdul Siddique, Ex-Pramukh of Mayabunder, has written a strongly-worded letter dated 24th June 2025 to the Deputy Commissioner, North and Middle Andaman District, urging immediate action against the inaction of NACD and APWD Mayabunder.
In his letter Mr. Siddique stated “Despite repeated requests, no initiative has been taken by NACD, APWD to repair the district road in Mayabunder. Even after a letter from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner N&M Andaman, undersigned by the Assistant Commissioner, dated 13th May 2025, no action has been taken so far by the concerned division.”
Mr. Siddique expressed strong disappointment over what he described as a shift in priorities by the NACD officials, alleging:
“It appears that the focus of a few officials of NACD Mayabunder has altered its priorities. Instead of working for the public, it seems to be functioning as a personal work department. The NACD of Andaman Public Work Department has changed the meaning of the alphabet ‘P’ from Public to Personal.”
He further claimed that government workers and materials are being engaged in personal chores such as kitchen work, gardening, and driving for a few engineers at their homes.
“This issue of the district road has been raised by public representatives, the general public, unions, and local residents several times, but the NACD seems to be taking it casually,” the letter added.
Referring to the excuses often given by the department such as lack of materials, insufficient funds, or unsuitable weather, Mr. Siddique questioned the seriousness of the authorities:
“Despite having annual funds, issuing tenders, and work orders, the NACD Mayabunder always has excuses. The district road always remains in poor shape, leaving the public to suffer.”
He also criticized the seeming inefficacy of the Road Section under Sub-Division No. 01, saying:
“It seems like this section exists in name only, as the roads always remain in poor condition, leaving one to wonder what they are actually meant for.”
Describing the immediate area of concern, Mr. Siddique said:
“The actual stretch of road requiring immediate repair is from Neemtala Danapur to Burmadeera (approx. 02 km), which is in a very pathetic condition. Big-radius major potholes have appeared at several places, making the road hazardous. Vehicles often take the wrong side to avoid potholes, increasing the risk of accidents.
He emphasized that young drivers with loans on vehicles are particularly affected due to high maintenance costs and the dangerous road. He warned that if no action is taken, the public may be forced to protest: “If the road is not repaired immediately after the rains stop, we, the people of Mayabunder, will be forced to stage protests and agitations against NACD, APWD, Mayabunder.”
“I once again request your goodself for your kind intervention on public interest and to kindly give necessary direction to the concerned authorities of NACD, APWD Mayabunder, to repair the said stretch of road at the earliest in a proper manner,” he added.
The people of Mayabunder now await swift and effective intervention from the district administration to resolve this long-standing civic concern.
