Over eight years after a crocodile attack led to the closure of Wandoor Sea Beach in South Andaman, frustration continues to mount among residents and tourism stakeholders, with renewed appeals for the beach’s reopening gaining momentum. The issue, which has long been a point of contention, has now drawn the attention of Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray, who has urged the Administration to take immediate steps to restore public access to the popular tourist destination.
Wandoor Beach, known for its scenic coastline and vibrant marine life, was once a hub for tourism and a critical economic lifeline for residents of Ferrargunj Tehsil and Wandoor Gram Panchayat. The ban on swimming and sea-related activities was imposed in 2017 following a fatal crocodile attack, attributed to lapses in safety oversight by the Forest and Tourism Departments. At the time, the closure was described as a temporary measure until suitable long-term safety infrastructure could be installed. However, no such measures have materialised even after more than eight years.
The prolonged inaction has caused widespread economic distress in the region. A large section of the population, particularly unemployed youth, relied heavily on tourism and fisheries for their livelihood. With the beach remaining off-limits, locals report mounting debts and a deepening financial crisis. Despite repeated representations by Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members, including the Pradhan of Wandoor, no concrete steps have been taken to resolve the situation.
During a recent public discussion held two months ago, officials assured that consultations with relevant stakeholders would be conducted and necessary safety protocols implemented. However, residents allege that the assurances have failed to translate into any visible action on the ground.
Adding to the pressure, MP Bishnu Pada Ray has now stepped in, strongly advocating for the beach’s reopening. Citing the economic hardships faced by locals and the prolonged delay in implementing safety mechanisms, he has called upon the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to intervene without further delay. Ray also pointed out that similar incidents, such as the 2021 crocodile attack at Swaraj Dweep, were handled more efficiently. In that case, the relevant departments swiftly implemented preventive measures, such as crocodile monitoring, safety nets, lifeguards, and public awareness systems, allowing beaches to remain open and safe for public use.
Local voices are urging the Administration to replicate the Swaraj Dweep model at Wandoor, calling for the immediate installation of protective sea nets, trained lifeguards, crocodile surveillance, and warning signage to enable safe, regulated tourism.
As one of the most iconic beaches in the archipelago, Wandoor’s continued closure represents not only a blow to the tourism sector but also to the social and economic fabric of the surrounding communities. With political voices now amplifying local demands, residents hope the Administration will act swiftly to restore access and revive a long-dormant source of livelihood and regional pride.
