MP Kuldeep Rai Sharma Urges Lt. Governor to Lease Tugboats for Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Rohit Kumar

Port Blair, 19 June 2023

Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has appealed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to think about leasing or hiring two tugboats on a short-term contract, spanning a minimum of 3 to 4 years.

In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Mr. Sharma expressed gratitude for the continual efforts which have led to the arrival of two new ships, MV Nalanda and MV Sindhu, at Andaman and Nicobar Islands. However, he highlighted a urgent concern – the absence of a tugboat that has hindered the docking of those ships at Car Nicobar Jetty.

Mr. Sharma identified that the reliance on MV Bharat Seema, which lacks trendy facilities for passengers and operates at a slower tempo, has precipitated vital difficulties for vacationers journeying from Port Blair to Car Nicobar. This state of affairs has necessitated rapid consideration to make sure the comfort and well-being of passengers.

The Member of Parliament additionally emphasised the challenges confronted by ships working at Port Blair as a result of restricted availability of tugboats.

Although orders for brand spanking new tugboats have been positioned, Mr. Sharma highlighted the time-consuming means of procurement and building, which may span a number of years. To tackle this concern promptly, he urged the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to think about leasing or hiring two tugboats on a short-term contract for a minimal interval of three to 4 years.

Mr. Sharma believes that this resolution won’t solely allow the individuals of Car Nicobar to profit from the companies of the brand new ships MV Nalanda and MV Sindhu, however it is going to additionally improve the effectivity of the meals provide chain and varied maritime operations. By taking rapid motion, the area’s connectivity and total maritime operations will expertise vital enchancment.