Sri Vijaya Puram, June 29: The President of the Andaman & Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee, Mr. Rangalal Halder, has appealed to the Chief Secretary, A & N Administration, to take immediate steps for the clearance of dense roadside unwanted plants growth along several vulnerable stretches of National Highway-4 (NH-4) between South Andaman and Middle Andaman in the interest of public safety.
In his representation, Mr. Halder stated that the roadside vegetation has grown extensively along the important stretches from Jirkatang to Middle Strait, Baratang to Gandhi Ghat, and Kadamtala 3 No. Gate to Parlobjig 15 No. Gate, severely affecting visibility for vehicles and creating hazardous conditions for all road users. The unchecked growth of unwanted plants on both sides of the highway has become a major safety concern, especially on narrow and curved sections of the road.
He further pointed out that a recent incident has already occurred in one of these stretches, which clearly indicates the seriousness of the situation. Unless immediate preventive measures are taken, similar accidents and untoward incidents may occur at any time, putting the lives of commuters at risk.
Mr. Halder emphasized that NH-4 is the lifeline connecting South Andaman and Middle Andaman and is used daily by local residents, transport operators, tourists, and emergency service vehicles. The dense roadside vegetation not only obstructs visibility but also creates fear and inconvenience among commuters while travelling through these vulnerable stretches.
In view of the prevailing situation, Mr. Halder has earnestly requested the Chief Secretary to direct the concerned departments to undertake an immediate clearance drive to remove the roadside unwanted plants growth along the identified stretches of NH-4 on a priority basis. Such timely action, he said, will significantly reduce the risk of accidents, improve visibility, and ensure the safe and smooth movement of vehicles.
Mr. Halder expressed hope that the A & N Administration would treat the matter with utmost urgency and take prompt action to safeguard the lives of the people and maintain safe road conditions across these critical stretches of the National Highway.
