Sri Vijaya Puram, May 20: More than 300 candidates remain stranded in Campbell Bay after attending a trade test for the post of Forest Mazdoor, prompting a formal appeal to the Directorate of Shipping Services for urgent additional ship connectivity to facilitate their return.
In a representation dated May 20, G. Bhasker, Chairman of the Campaign Committee, ANTCC, highlighted the difficulties faced by candidates who travelled to Campbell Bay for the recruitment process and are now unable to return due to limited transport availability.
According to the letter, while a ship departed from Sri Vijaya Puram to Campbell Bay on May 19, the capacity is unlikely to accommodate all those waiting to return. A significant number of candidates, including those from the Nicobar group of islands, continue to remain stranded without clarity on immediate travel arrangements.
The situation has led to growing concern among candidates, many of whom are facing financial constraints. With limited resources, several individuals are struggling to manage expenses related to food, accommodation and other daily needs while awaiting transportation.
The issue is particularly acute for candidates who travelled from remote island regions and are dependent on scheduled shipping services for their return. The absence of sufficient sailings has disrupted their plans and extended their stay in Campbell Bay beyond expected timelines.
Bhasker, in his appeal, urged the Directorate to arrange an additional ship sailing from Campbell Bay to Sri Vijaya Puram. He further suggested that the vessel route include stops at the Nicobar group of islands as well as North and Middle Andaman, enabling stranded candidates from multiple regions to return home.
The request underscores the logistical challenges associated with inter-island connectivity in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where shipping services remain a critical lifeline for passenger movement. Limited frequency and capacity of vessels often lead to congestion during peak travel periods, particularly when large numbers of candidates or workers move simultaneously.
The representation also draws attention to the broader public interest dimension of the issue, as delays in transportation not only affect individuals but also raise concerns about planning and coordination during recruitment-related travel.
Bhasker has called for immediate intervention, stating that an additional sailing would significantly reduce hardship and ensure safe return for all stranded candidates. He expressed hope that the Directorate would take prompt action in view of the urgency of the situation.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Directorate of Shipping Services regarding the request.
