Severe traffic congestion at key tourist locations in Swaraj Dweep has drawn the attention of Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray, who has urged the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to take immediate steps to address the growing problem, particularly during the peak tourist season.
During a visit to Swaraj Dweep on December 26 and 27, 2025, the MP personally observed heavy traffic congestion at the Harbour Area, a critical transit point for tourists arriving on the island. According to him, the congestion has been causing significant inconvenience to both visiting tourists and local residents. Despite the presence of traffic police personnel, vehicular movement remained slow and chaotic due to the sheer volume of vehicles and the absence of regulated parking arrangements.
The Harbour Area, which witnesses continuous inflow of private vehicles, two-wheelers and tourist transport, has emerged as a major bottleneck. Unauthorised and haphazard parking along narrow roads has further reduced carriage space, leading to frequent traffic snarls and delays, especially during ferry arrival and departure hours.
A similar situation was also observed at Radhanagar Beach, one of the most visited tourist destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The MP noted that the influx of tourists, combined with a high number of vehicles, often results in prolonged congestion near the beach entrance. The lack of designated parking facilities has forced vehicles to park along roadside stretches, disrupting traffic flow and posing safety concerns for pedestrians.
Highlighting the issue as a recurring and seasonal challenge, the MP pointed out that traffic congestion at both locations becomes particularly severe during tourist peaks, undermining the overall travel experience and placing additional pressure on local infrastructure. He stressed that traffic management alone would not be sufficient unless supported by proper parking infrastructure.
Emphasising the strategic importance of Swaraj Dweep as a major tourism hub, the MP urged the administration to take immediate corrective measures to address the situation. He requested the creation of designated parking areas at both the Harbour Area and Radhanagar Beach to streamline vehicular movement, reduce congestion, and ensure smoother access for emergency and service vehicles.
According to the MP, the absence of planned parking spaces has become the primary cause of persistent traffic issues, despite enforcement measures. He stated that organised parking facilities would not only ease congestion but also enhance safety, improve traffic discipline, and offer a more convenient experience for tourists and residents alike.
The MP further requested that the matter be examined on priority and necessary directions be issued for early implementation. He underlined that timely intervention is essential in the larger interest of tourism development, public convenience, and sustainable management of visitor inflow at Swaraj Dweep.
Traffic congestion has been a growing concern across major tourist locations in the islands, with Swaraj Dweep witnessing one of the highest footfalls. With tourism continuing to expand, the demand for better infrastructure planning, including parking and traffic management, has become increasingly urgent.
