In 2010-11, the Indian government sanctioned a survey for a broad-gauge railway line connecting Port Blair and Diglipur in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The project was envisioned as a transformative step for the archipelago, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity. Initially targeted for completion by September 2014, the railway remains incomplete more than a decade later, raising concerns about delays in critical infrastructure development.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have long been regarded as one of India’s most exotic travel destinations, drawing thousands of tourists annually. Offering pristine beaches, diverse marine life, and a distinct cultural experience, the islands provide a cost-effective alternative to international beach destinations. However, the slow progress of the proposed railway project is impeding the region’s rapid tourism transformation.
A broad-gauge railway line spanning 240 km was proposed to link the capital city, Port Blair, with Diglipur in North Andaman, significantly reducing travel time. Currently, the journey between these two points takes over 14 hours by road and nearly 24 hours by sea. The railway project, once operational, is expected to cut travel time by three hours and create a seamless transit experience for tourists and locals alike. Despite these benefits, the project has encountered significant delays, stalling the islands’ potential for tourism expansion and economic growth.
The initial estimate for the project was Rs 1,984.35 crore, later revised to Rs 2,413.68 crore. Even though the Railway Ministry and the Union Territory administration have recognized the project’s strategic and economic significance, its slow progress raises concerns about the government’s commitment to developing Andaman’s tourism infrastructure.
Tourism is the backbone of Andaman’s economy, contributing significantly to local employment and revenue generation. The introduction of a railway line would allow for a smoother influx of tourists, making remote yet stunning locations like Ross and Smith Islands more accessible. The current transportation options, including limited flights, long-haul buses, and unreliable ferry services, deter many travelers from exploring beyond Port Blair. A functional rail network would integrate the islands more effectively, encouraging higher footfall and longer stays, thus benefiting local businesses.
While the project’s financial viability remains debatable—official estimates indicate a negative rate of return of -9.64 percent—its long-term economic and strategic benefits cannot be overlooked. The UT administration has committed to covering 50 percent of the operational losses, recognizing that increased tourist arrivals could offset some of the initial expenditures. If successful, the railway could push the annual tourist count from 4.5 lakh to 6 lakh, bringing a substantial boost to local commerce.
Beyond tourism, the railway line holds immense strategic importance for national security. Diglipur is merely 300 km from Myanmar’s southern coast, making it a crucial point for defense operations. Given the government’s emphasis on strengthening border infrastructure, the Andaman railway should be prioritized alongside other strategic projects, such as those in the Northeast. The Railway Board’s recommendation to classify this project under national interest or strategic development aligns with the government’s broader objectives.
The sluggish execution of this ambitious project reflects broader infrastructural challenges in India’s island territories. Unlike mainland railway projects, which benefit from established supply chains and logistical networks, Andaman’s isolated geography poses unique hurdles. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. Expedited funding, timely policy interventions, and improved project monitoring could accelerate completion. The successful implementation of this railway would not only elevate Andaman’s tourism industry but also serve as a model for future infrastructural development in remote areas.
For Andaman and Nicobar to realize its full tourism potential, it is imperative that the railway project is not only revived but also given the urgency it deserves. With the central government pushing for improved connectivity in border regions, Andaman’s railway must be treated as an integral part of this mission. If completed efficiently, it could be the catalyst that transforms Andaman from a seasonal travel spot into a year-round global tourism hub.
