Nitin Gadkari Reviews Highway Projects and Development in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Union Minister for Road, Transport, and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, recently visited the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to review ongoing national highway projects and address the region’s development needs. Gadkari’s visit, which began on December 28, 2024, is part of a broader effort to improve infrastructure across the archipelago, benefiting both local residents and the growing tourism sector.
Upon his arrival in Port Blair, Gadkari held discussions with Lieutenant Governor Admiral (Retd) D K Joshi, focusing on national highway projects and related infrastructure. These projects are set to enhance connectivity between the islands, improving travel times and boosting tourism. “We requested his intervention for the completion of various pending works, including land conversion, medical facilities, higher education, and roads,” said a senior BJP worker in Port Blair. Gadkari’s attention to these issues underscores his commitment to the development of remote regions like the Andamans.
The highway projects are especially crucial in this geographically isolated region, where improving transport links is essential for both residents and visitors. The national highway initiatives are being spearheaded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), in collaboration with local authorities. They aim to create robust road networks that connect key islands, reduce travel times, and promote economic development. These highways are expected to enhance access to vital services, such as healthcare and education, while making the islands more accessible to tourists.
The improved infrastructure will have significant advantages for travellers, particularly as tourism continues to grow in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Visitors will benefit from better road access to popular destinations such as Swaraj Dweep (formerly Havelock Island), known for its beautiful beaches and water sports activities. Additionally, quicker and more efficient road transport will allow tourists to explore the region’s rich history and culture, such as historical sites like the Cellular Jail National Memorial and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island. Gadkari’s visit also included a tour of several significant memorials, showcasing the historical importance of the region. He visited the Cellular Jail National Memorial, a solemn reminder of India’s freedom struggle. At the memorial, he paid tribute to the many freedom fighters who were imprisoned there by the British. Gadkari also visited the Martyrs’ Column and laid a wreath at the memorial, acknowledging the sacrifices made by the country’s freedom fighters.
His tour continued with a visit to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (previously known as Ross Island), where he explored World War II-era bunkers and the Smritika Museum, a tribute to the Indian Navy’s role in the region. The proposed national memorial dedicated to Subhash Chandra Bose was also discussed during the visit, highlighting the importance of preserving the historical legacy of the islands. Gadkari’s tour reflects the government’s focus on improving both the infrastructure and tourism appeal of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As the region’s national highway projects progress, residents and visitors will experience smoother, more efficient travel, and the islands will become more connected, not only to mainland India but also within their own network of islands. This will undoubtedly lead to increased tourism and greater economic opportunities for the local communities. The Union Minister will continue his visit, staying in Swaraj Dweep until December 30, before leaving the archipelago on January 1, 2025. With these infrastructure improvements, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are set to enjoy a brighter future with better connectivity, improved living standards, and a thriving tourism sector.
