Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 26: Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, the MP, A&N Islands, along with Mr. T.K. Prijit Rekh, Chief Engineer and Mr. Bijju Vargese, Executive Engineer, APWD, A&N Administration, met Mr. Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, in New Delhi on 25.03.2026 to pursue and secure CRIF funding for the development of the road sector in the A&N Islands.
During the meeting, the MP highlighted the urgent need for release of funds under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) for upgradation, repair and renovation of roads in the A&N Islands, particularly in North & Middle Andaman.
Taking into account the remote location and developmental needs of the islands, the Minister has, as a special case, agreed to provide financial assistance of Rs.60 crore under CRIF. The Chief Engineer, APWD, has been directed to submit a detailed proposal urgently through the A&N Administration at the earliest so that formal sanction can be accorded accordingly.
The Minister also emphasized the need for early submission of Utilization Certificates (UCs) for previously sanctioned CRF funds to facilitate the Ministry timely release of further eligible allocations of CRIF to the A&N Islands.
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, the MP expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Minister for his continued support and for extending much-needed financial assistance towards strengthening road infrastructure in the A&N Islands.
