Ganeshan
Baratang, Oct 01: The Andaman and Nicobar Administration operationalized alternate sea route from Port Blair to Baratang Island by introducing the first sailing as part of the implementation of the Jarawa Policy of 2004 and compliance of the commitment given by the Administration to the Supreme Court of India.
According to reports the first ferry of this Alternate Sea Route, MV Strait Island today reached Baratang Islands at around 10.10 AM with nearly 15 passengers.
Jarawa Activists around the world have been demanding for creation of this alternate sea route to protect the Jarawa from Outsiders, especially tourists, many of whom come to Andaman with an desire to see them while crossing a stretch of Andaman Trunk Road, while going towards Baratang Island.
However, local residents and tour operators were completely against closing the Andaman Trunk Road for any reason, as they believe Andaman Trunk Road is a lifeline for Andamans.
Local Tour operators fear that closing the Andaman Trunk Road, once alternate Sea Route is ready, will cause financial loss to hundreds of tourist vehicles owners in Andaman.
Meanwhile, the Secretary (Tribal Welfare) has already clarified that the portion of ATR passing through Jarawa Tribal Reserve in South Andaman District from Jirkatang to Middle Strait shall remain open for the use of both islanders and the tourists as no decision has been taken by this Administration for closing it down for the tourists.
However, the tourists have been advised by the Andaman Administration to avail boat service being provided by the Directorate of Shipping Service, Port Blair for their visit to Baratang for safety and security of the Jarawa tribe.
