Little Andaman, April 27: Shortage of quarry materials and white moorum, delays in public works, and gaps in MGNREGA implementation emerged as key concerns during a high-level review chaired by Director (RD, PRIs & ULBs) Apurva Sharma during a two-day visit to Little Andaman.
Sharma visited the island on April 25–26, 2026, and chaired a review meeting at the Panchayat Samiti in Little Andaman with PRI representatives, officials, and Self Help Group (SHG) members. The meeting brought into focus multiple bottlenecks affecting development works and infrastructure delivery in the region.
Officials and PRI representatives flagged the non-availability of essential construction materials, including quarry resources and white moorum, as a major hurdle slowing down ongoing and planned works. Concerns were also raised over delays in execution timelines, limitations in infrastructure, and challenges in the implementation of MGNREGA schemes.
Responding to these issues, Sharma directed concerned departments to resolve bottlenecks on priority, ensure timely completion of works, and improve monitoring and coordination mechanisms. The directive aimed at expediting stalled projects and strengthening administrative efficiency in development execution.
During interactions with SHG members, the Director emphasized the need to promote market-oriented and eco-friendly products. He stressed improving marketing linkages and exploring tourism-based opportunities to enhance income generation and sustainability for local groups.
As part of the visit, Sharma conducted field inspections of Solid Waste Management facilities, ongoing development works, and public infrastructure across Little Andaman. He issued instructions to improve waste management systems, enhance cleanliness, and strengthen overall service delivery in the region.
On April 26, the Director inaugurated the renovated Fish Market at Gandhi Bazaar in Hut Bay, marking a key step in strengthening local infrastructure for the fishing community. During his interaction with fishermen, Sharma acknowledged concerns related to infrastructure gaps, facilities, and safe boat parking.
He assured that these issues would be addressed in a phased manner, indicating a structured approach to improving fisheries-related infrastructure on the island.
Reiterating the broader administrative stance, Sharma underlined the commitment towards balanced and sustainable development in Little Andaman, focusing on addressing grassroots challenges while improving livelihood opportunities.
The visit highlighted ongoing structural and logistical challenges in the island’s development framework while setting directives for faster execution and improved coordination among departments.
