Shantanu Thakur Reviews Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works; Calls for Expedited Port Development

The visit focused on evaluating the ALHW’s contributions to port infrastructure development and outlining strategies to accelerate growth in the Islands.

The Hon’ble Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur, conducted a comprehensive review of the Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works (ALHW) on December 30, 2024. The visit focused on evaluating the ALHW’s contributions to port infrastructure development and outlining strategies to accelerate growth in the Islands.

Upon his arrival at the ALHW office, Minister Thakur was warmly received by the organization’s officials. As part of a green initiative, the Minister planted a sapling on the premises, symbolizing a commitment to sustainable development in the region.

Progress Report and Key Directives

During a detailed review meeting, ALHW presented a comprehensive overview of its ongoing projects through a PowerPoint presentation. The Minister lauded the team for their efforts but emphasized the need to expedite project timelines to ensure timely delivery for public use.

Key directives issued by the Minister include:

1. Development of Virgin Islands: Creation of landing facilities to enhance connectivity and economic development in unexplored areas.
2. Public-Private Partnerships: Implementation of major projects through PPP mode to attract private investment and expertise.
3. Ship Repair Hub: Establishing a centralized ship repair facility to support maritime operations in the Islands.
4. Floating Jetties: Construction of floating jetties at popular tourism destinations to boost sustainable tourism.
5. Retrofitting Old Jetties: Modernization and retrofitting of aging infrastructure to improve safety and functionality.

Focus on Galathea Bay ICTP Project

Minister Thakur highlighted the strategic importance of Campbell Bay Harbour in supporting the proposed Galathea Bay International Container Transshipment Port (ICTP). He directed ALHW to prioritize creating the necessary supporting infrastructure at Campbell Bay to ensure smooth progress of the ICTP project, which is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing India’s maritime trade capacity.

Vision for Sustainable Maritime Growth

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to leveraging the maritime potential of the Andaman and Lakshadweep Islands. This includes:

• Enhanced Connectivity: Ensuring robust connectivity between the islands and mainland India.
• Economic Growth: Using port infrastructure as a catalyst for local economic development and employment generation.
• Tourism Development: Promoting eco-friendly tourism through innovative infrastructure projects.

Path Forward

The review concluded with a call for improved coordination between ALHW, local authorities, and private stakeholders to fast-track infrastructure development. The Minister emphasized the need for sustainable practices in all projects to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.

Minister Thakur’s visit underscores the government’s focus on transforming the maritime landscape of the Andaman and Lakshadweep Islands, aiming to position the region as a vital hub for international trade and tourism.