Image:Government of India
In a strategic move towards bolstering maritime infrastructure and tourism, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, concluded a two-day visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The highlight of his visit was the exploration of the proposed site for a Major Harbour at Atlanta Bay near Diglipur.
Atlanta Bay’s Potential as a Bulk Cargo Transshipment Hub
Atlanta Bay, with its natural draft of 19/20 and proximity to sea routes connecting East & NE India to East & SE Asia, Australia-New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, presents an opportune location for a Bulk Cargo transshipment hub. The current jetty, with a 5m draft, serves inter-island vessels and holds promise for further development. The feasibility study for the Atlanta Bay Major Harbour is currently underway.
Economic Impact and Connectivity Benefits
Once operational, the Bulk Cargo Transshipment Port is poised to bring economic benefits to India and its neighboring countries. Situated strategically in the northern side of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the proposed 10mtr draft harbour is crucial for promoting high-end tourism and reducing travel time between major ports at Andaman and Kolkata from 72 hours to a mere 15 hours.
Focus on Tourism Development
During his visit, Minister Sonowal took an aerial survey of the International Container Transshipment Port (ICTP), a Sagarmala Project at Galathea Bay. He also explored the possibility of developing Indira Point, the southernmost point of India’s territory, as a tourism destination. The vision includes creating essential tourism amenities to attract visitors.
Ongoing Projects and Sagarmala Programme
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are witnessing substantial development under the Sagarmala programme, with 58 projects worth Rs. 7,622 Crores currently being monitored. ALHW (Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works) is playing a pivotal role in implementing these projects, spanning marine infrastructure, breakwaters, wharves, jetties, and more.
Island Development in Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047
The focus on island development aligns with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Initial plans emphasize job creation through tourism promotion and export of local products. Over the next decade, 26 islands across the Union Territories of Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the State of Gujarat are earmarked for development. Minister Sonowal’s visit,showing the government’s commitment to leveraging the maritime potential of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The proposed Major Harbour at Atlanta Bay and other ongoing projects signal a transformative phase for the region, aligning with broader visions for economic growth, tourism promotion, and sustainable island development.
Source:Government of India
