The Transport Department of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration has launched a new bus service connecting Bambooflat to North Bay via Chunna Bhatta, addressing long-standing demands from local residents and public representatives for improved public transport. The initiative follows the completion of a newly constructed road and is expected to offer both practical connectivity and scenic value, benefiting tourists and local communities alike.
The inaugural event took place at Chunna Bhatta and was attended by Secretary of Transport Jyoti Kumari, Director of Transport Jatinder Sohal, members of local Panchayats, and enthusiastic residents. The officials flagged off the first bus amid applause and appreciation from community members and self-help groups (SHGs), who see the new service as a long-awaited solution for daily commuting and a potential catalyst for local entrepreneurship.
The road from Chunna Bhatta to North Bay had recently been made operational after infrastructure development efforts by the Administration. Requests for a regular bus service were reinforced by local PRI representatives and the Member of Parliament, emphasizing the lack of accessible transportation for people living in and around North Bay, a popular destination for both local traders and tourists.
The Transport Department, despite resource limitations, has managed to reallocate its fleet to initiate service along this new route. The scheduled buses will depart from Bambooflat Bus Terminus at 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 5:30 PM daily. These timings aim to cater to both early travelers and returnees from North Bay, allowing flexibility and convenience for commuting, especially for those engaged in tourism-related services.
According to officials, this service will particularly benefit SHGs and vendors who have set up stalls in the North Bay area. With increased footfall expected due to better transport access, many entrepreneurs are hopeful that their incomes will rise as more visitors can now reach the site without relying solely on water transport.
Tourists too stand to gain significantly. Until now, most visitors to North Bay were dependent on boat services, which were subject to weather conditions and fixed timings. The new bus route not only provides an affordable alternative but also offers travelers the chance to enjoy a drive through the picturesque coastal stretches, turning the journey itself into a tourist experience.
Secretary Jyoti Kumari praised the initiative and the Department’s efforts to deliver timely services despite logistical constraints. She underscored the importance of last-mile connectivity in a region like Andaman, where transportation often defines accessibility to services and opportunities. She also encouraged the public to use and support the bus service to ensure its sustainability.
Transport Director Jatinder Sohal acknowledged the role of community feedback in bringing this route to life. He emphasized that the Department is keen on promoting public transport usage and will continue responding to emerging needs as far as resources allow. He urged residents to promote the route, especially among tourists, to enhance visibility and utility.
Local PRI leaders, including Zilla Parishad Member Mariam Bibi and Panchayat Pradhans from Hopetown and Bambooflat, welcomed the move. They highlighted how such services contribute to regional equity, connecting underserved areas to commercial and recreational hubs. SHG representatives noted that improved mobility will also help them scale their businesses by reducing transport dependence and costs.
The launch ceremony concluded with a short ride for dignitaries and residents, many of whom expressed satisfaction at the service’s launch. Public announcements have been made in local villages to spread awareness about the new schedule, and Transport Department staff have been stationed at the Bambooflat terminus to assist first-time passengers.
The new bus route represents more than a transportation update, it’s a shift toward inclusive infrastructure development. By enhancing access, supporting local enterprise, and diversifying travel options for tourists, the Andaman Administration is taking a step toward more connected and economically vibrant island communities. The success of the Bambooflat-North Bay route may also pave the way for similar services in other under connected parts of the territory.
