Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 20: The BJP has highlighted progress on several long-pending demands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including a proposed 50 MW LNG power project, drinking-water augmentation, domicile provisions, stronger Panchayati Raj institutions and improved healthcare, following a delegation’s meetings with senior party leadership in New Delhi.
Addressing the media, Andaman and Nicobar BJP president Anil Kumar Tiwari said the party had been pursuing an 11-point agenda covering major development concerns in the Islands. Based on priority and urgency, six issues were selected for focused follow-up during a delegation’s visit to New Delhi on July 13 and 14.
The delegation placed demands relating to electricity, drinking water, local employment, healthcare, Panchayati Raj institutions and compensation for land required for the upcoming project at Campbell Bay. The BJP said discussions with senior leadership had resulted in progress on some issues, while others had moved into the implementation process.
Among the key developments cited by the party was the proposed 50 MW LNG-based power project at Bamboo Flat. According to the BJP, land has been identified, an MoU signed and a preliminary Detailed Project Report prepared. The project has also received sanction, with further steps expected towards implementation.
The party said the Islands currently require about 30–35 MW of electricity, but the larger project is being planned to account for future demand and provide a longer-term response to power requirements.
Drinking-water availability was another major focus. BJP leaders said around 32 MLD is currently supplied to Sri Vijaya Puram, while additional sources have been developed to augment supply. A source providing about 6.6 MLD daily from 2022 was subsequently expanded by tapping further water sources.
The party also cited renovation of water bodies, including around 33 ponds in South Andaman, as well as six ponds each in Mayabunder and Diglipur. It said 15 borewells had been taken up in South Andaman where groundwater conditions permit, while five borewells at Wimberly Gunj had been inaugurated.
Proposals for dams at Guptapara and Macca Pahad were also highlighted. The BJP said an MoU had been signed with the Central Water Commission and the administration for the proposed projects, which it said would increase storage capacity and strengthen long-term water security. It also pointed to siltation in the Dhanikhari Dam, constructed in 1973, which was designed for a much smaller population.
The party is also seeking a domicile provision for Island residents, particularly to expand opportunities for local candidates in Group B and Group C government employment. It clarified that the demand does not seek reservation in UPSC recruitment.
Restoration of powers and financial support for Panchayati Raj institutions and elected representatives remains another priority, with the BJP arguing that local bodies need adequate authority and funds to undertake grassroots development.
Healthcare improvement and enhanced compensation for land required for the Campbell Bay project also formed part of the delegation’s demands. The party said it received an assurance on increasing compensation.
The BJP also spoke of pursuing an international-standard cricket stadium in the Islands, arguing that such a facility could support local sporting talent and contribute to tourism.
The party said it would continue pursuing these issues with the Centre and the administration, while acknowledging contributions by governments of different political parties to the Islands’ development. It said reliable electricity, drinking water, roads and employment remain longstanding concerns and that continued follow-up would be required to translate approvals and assurances into completed projects.
