In a major infrastructure initiative, the Andaman & Nicobar Administration has approved Rs 10.80 crore for the improvement of State Highway-15, the key arterial road connecting Subhashgram Bazar to Laxmipur in Diglipur Tehsil. The project encompasses reconstruction of dilapidated culverts and strengthening of the 5.50 km stretch from chainage 0.00 km to 5.50 km.
State Highway-15, spanning 24.70 km from Diglipur Bazaar to Hathilevel, serves as the lifeline for multiple habitations, stone quarry blocks, and the Mud Volcano tourist site. Over the years, heavy vehicular movement, water stagnation, and lack of major repairs led to deteriorating road conditions, causing discomfort and delays for commuters and freight transport alike.
The approved project includes a comprehensive road strengthening plan with a 75 mm Bituminous Macadam overlay, a 40 mm Bituminous Concrete wearing course, and 1.00 m wide shoulders. Five years of maintenance have also been incorporated into the plan. A key component of the initiative is the reconstruction of old and earthquake-affected culverts into modern RCC box culverts built according to MoRTH and IRC standards, aimed at eliminating bottlenecks and enhancing safety for road users.
The works are slated to be executed by the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD) and are expected to be completed within ten months. Officials say the upgrade will significantly improve connectivity, travel comfort, road safety, and support economic activity, including tourism development in the region.
Administration authorities emphasized that this sanction reflects the ongoing commitment to sustainable, people-centric infrastructure development in North Andaman. By prioritizing both road durability and commuter safety, the initiative is expected to address longstanding public concerns about poor road conditions and facilitate smoother transport of goods and passengers across the tehsil.
The project also aims to future-proof the highway against natural challenges such as waterlogging and seismic vulnerability, which have historically affected road stability in the region. Local residents and businesses are expected to benefit from reduced travel time, enhanced access to marketplaces, and safer road conditions during peak and off-peak traffic hours.
With North Andaman witnessing increasing vehicular and tourist traffic, the upgrade of State Highway-15 is positioned as a critical step toward bolstering regional infrastructure and supporting economic growth. The administration has reiterated its focus on timely execution and stringent adherence to construction standards to ensure long-term durability of the road network.
