Sri Vijaya Puram, June 5: Efforts to improve infrastructure at the Junglighat Burning Ghat have gathered momentum, with the office of the Member of Parliament announcing that road repairs and renovation works at the cremation facility are being taken up on priority, even as community groups continue to raise concerns over its maintenance and condition.
According to information issued by the MP’s Office, the road stretch connecting Junglighat School to Murdha Ghat (Burning Ghat) is presently in a dilapidated condition, causing inconvenience to the public and raising safety concerns.
The office stated that the Member of Parliament has already instructed the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD) to include the road improvement work under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF/CRF) to ensure its repair and upgradation.
The announcement comes at a time when concerns regarding the condition of the cremation ground have been highlighted by community organisations.
Recently, Hindu Rashtra Shakti (HRS), Andaman and Nicobar Islands, submitted a representation to the administration seeking urgent restoration and regular maintenance of the Junglighat Hindu cremation ground. The organisation had cited issues such as deteriorating infrastructure, sanitation concerns, inadequate drainage and poor upkeep at the facility.
HRS had argued that families performing last rites were often forced to contend with unhygienic surroundings and damaged infrastructure during emotionally sensitive occasions. The organisation also sought improvements in lighting, drainage and overall maintenance of the cremation ground.
Meanwhile, the MP’s Office stated that the Member of Parliament had also proposed providing funds through the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) for repair and renovation of the rooftop and other essential infrastructure at the Burning Ghat.
However, during discussions with the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC), it was learnt that the civic body had already sanctioned ₹25.79 lakh for the proposed works.
According to the information released, PBMC has approved an expenditure of ₹25,79,100 for repair and renovation activities at the cremation facility. The tender process has already been initiated and is scheduled to be opened on June 10.
Officials indicated that the project will be taken up on priority and executed at the earliest after completion of the tendering process.
The proposed works are expected to address several infrastructure deficiencies at the facility and improve conditions for members of the public using the cremation ground.
The Junglighat Burning Ghat serves as one of the principal cremation facilities in South Andaman and is frequently used by residents of Sri Vijaya Puram and adjoining areas. Concerns regarding road access and maintenance of the premises have periodically been raised by local residents and social organisations.
The deteriorating condition of the approach road has been a particular concern, especially during the monsoon season when waterlogging and road damage can affect accessibility. Residents have long sought improvements to ensure safer and smoother movement for funeral processions and visitors.
The latest announcement from the MP’s Office suggests that both road infrastructure and facility upgrades are now under active consideration, with funding mechanisms identified for carrying out the required works.
While community organisations continue to seek long-term maintenance solutions, the sanctioning of renovation funds and the planned road repairs are expected to provide relief to residents who have been demanding improvements at the site.
The MP’s Office said the information was being issued for the knowledge of the general public, while assuring that the repair and renovation works would be pursued on priority to improve public convenience and essential civic infrastructure at the Junglighat Burning Ghat.
