Sri Vijaya Puram, October 25: Lieutenant Governor Dr Dinesh Sharma on Saturday announced that one acre of land would be earmarked for a sports ground in Vrindavan village, while indicating that a major road expansion plan for the region was being prepared. He also called for the early handover of the completed Firozganj Stadium and warned of strict action against drug trafficking and illegal timber felling in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Addressing residents during his visit to Vrindavan on October 24, the Lieutenant Governor said the proposed sports ground would provide children and young people with opportunities to participate in sports and recreational activities closer to home.
“I have directed the District Collector to earmark one acre of land for a sports ground in Vrindavan. Once the land is allocated, we will sit together and decide what facilities should be developed there,” Dr Sharma said, referring to discussions with Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray and local representatives on the need for a dedicated playground.
He said the completed Firozganj Stadium should also be handed over to the public without unnecessary delay, adding that he would attend its dedication. Emphasising the importance of accessible sports infrastructure in rural areas, he said children should be able to participate in sporting activities and connect with opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings.
On connectivity, Dr Sharma indicated that a significant road expansion proposal was being pursued for the region, although he refrained from disclosing details at this stage.
“I am preparing a major plan for road expansion in the Baratang region. I will not announce it now, but the road will be widened and a new, long stretch of road is also being planned,” he said, adding that a proposal had been submitted and discussions had taken place with the concerned Union Minister.
The Lieutenant Governor said improved connectivity would particularly benefit residents of Vrindavan and surrounding areas by easing travel. He also acknowledged the difficulties faced by islanders who must travel to mainland cities for specialised medical treatment, including cancer care, cardiac treatment and dialysis.
“I will not allow any essential facility to remain unavailable. I will address these deficiencies one by one,” he said, stressing the need to reduce public hardship and improve access to services.
Strict action against drugs, illegal timber felling
The Lieutenant Governor issued a stern warning against drug abuse and narcotics trafficking, saying he had personally called the Director General of Police for discussions on the issue.
“I have told the police to identify those involved in drug abuse and narcotics trafficking and take such strict action that they cannot destroy our region. We will not allow Andaman to be ruined by drugs,” he said.
He also warned those involved in illegal timber felling that they would face legal action. Officials found negligent in preventing such activities would also be held accountable, he said.
“I am sending a clear message that illegal timber felling will invite action against those responsible, as well as against officials who fail to act,” Dr Sharma said.
Water conservation and seafood park proposals
The Lieutenant Governor also discussed proposals aimed at strengthening water conservation and supporting local livelihoods. Referring to a suggestion by the MP to use Rubber Board land for constructing a rainwater-harvesting pond, he asked the concerned authorities to submit the proposal promptly so that it could be taken forward.
He further called for the submission of a proposal to earmark five hectares of land for a seafood park in Vrindavan after the process of reclaiming land from the Rubber Board.
Dr Sharma said the proposed seafood park could help increase the income of local farmers and support economic activity linked to seafood production and processing.
He also sought an update on the filter bed constructed at Dhundas Point by the concerned public works authorities, directing officials to complete any remaining work immediately.
Development works worth crores of rupees
Highlighting ongoing development in the village, the Lieutenant Governor referred to the contributions of the MP, the Pradhan and members of the local Panchayat Samiti. He cited development works valued at ₹79.15 lakh, a multipurpose community hall costing ₹47 lakh and a cement-concrete road project worth ₹32 lakh.
These works, he said, were intended to improve facilities for Vrindavan’s 3,341 residents.
Dr Sharma said his approach to administration would remain focused on improving public services and reducing inconvenience for residents. Rejecting the suggestion that the enthusiasm of a newly appointed administrator might fade over time, he said his commitment to development would only grow stronger.
“As time passes, my enthusiasm will increase. Those who work less will have to work more,” he said, emphasising accountability and the need to deliver greater convenience to the public.
The announcements place sports infrastructure, road connectivity, law enforcement, water conservation and livelihood development among the key priorities outlined during the Lieutenant Governor’s visit. The road expansion and seafood park remain proposals at the stage described in his remarks, while the sports ground awaits land allocation and the Firozganj Stadium awaits its handover to the public.
