Report: Minister Shantanu Thakur Reviews ALHW: Strengthening Island Infrastructure

Port Blair, India – January 3, 2025: Shri Shantanu Thakur, the Hon’ble Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, conducted a comprehensive review of the functioning of Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works (ALHW) during his recent visit to the islands. The review underscores the government’s commitment to fostering robust port infrastructure in the strategically significant Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep archipelago.

Shri Thakur’s visit comes at a time when maritime development is gaining unprecedented momentum in India’s policy priorities. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep are pivotal for India’s maritime security, trade, and connectivity. ALHW, an integral arm of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, plays a critical role in realizing these objectives by executing port and harbour projects that facilitate economic growth and ensure sustainable development in these remote regions.

A Thorough Evaluation of ALHW

During his visit, Shri Thakur reviewed ongoing projects, including the construction and modernization of jetties, breakwaters, and passenger terminals. He emphasized the need for efficient project execution and adherence to timelines, ensuring minimal disruption to local ecosystems and communities. The Minister inspected facilities in Port Blair, Diglipur, and Campbell Bay, appreciating the strides made in enhancing connectivity and service quality.

“The Andaman and Nicobar Islands hold immense potential to be a maritime hub. ALHW’s efforts in upgrading port infrastructure are instrumental in turning this vision into reality. It is vital to align our developmental goals with the aspirations of the local population and environmental sustainability,” Shri Thakur stated during the review meeting.

Strategic Importance of ALHW Initiatives

The strategic location of these islands offers immense opportunities for bolstering India’s maritime trade and logistics capabilities. ALHW’s projects aim to:

  1. Enhance Maritime Connectivity: By building modern jetties and passenger terminals, ALHW facilitates seamless connectivity between the islands and mainland India.
  2. Promote Tourism: Improved infrastructure boosts the tourism potential of these islands, contributing to economic growth and local employment.
  3. Support Defence Readiness: The development of ports and harbours strengthens India’s maritime defence capabilities, given the islands’ proximity to key international shipping lanes.
  4. Enable Blue Economy Initiatives: ALHW’s work dovetails with India’s broader strategy to harness the potential of the Blue Economy by promoting sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and marine biodiversity.
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Focus on Sustainability and Community Engagement

A critical aspect of Shri Thakur’s review was the emphasis on sustainable practices. ALHW has adopted measures to minimize ecological impact, including:

  • Using environmentally friendly construction materials.
  • Integrating renewable energy sources in port operations.
  • Conducting regular Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) to ensure compliance with green norms.

The Minister also interacted with local stakeholders, including community representatives, industry leaders, and environmental experts. Their feedback underscored the necessity of balancing development with the preservation of the unique cultural and ecological heritage of the islands.

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Future Roadmap for ALHW

Shri Thakur outlined a forward-looking roadmap for ALHW to further its contributions. Key highlights include:

  • Digital Transformation: Leveraging technology to streamline port operations and enhance service delivery.
  • Capacity Building: Investing in workforce training and development to ensure the highest standards of project execution.
  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encouraging private sector involvement in infrastructure projects to accelerate growth and innovation.
  • Regional Collaboration: Collaborating with neighboring countries to boost maritime trade and foster regional economic integration.

Conclusion

The Hon’ble Minister’s review of Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works signifies a renewed focus on developing world-class port infrastructure in India’s island territories. By prioritizing sustainability, efficiency, and community engagement, ALHW is poised to play a transformative role in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities. The efforts of Shri Shantanu Thakur and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways reflect a clear vision to integrate these islands into the broader narrative of India’s maritime growth story. As these initiatives come to fruition, they will undoubtedly contribute to the prosperity of the islands and the nation at large.

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