Port Blair, Nov. 15: The Member of Parliament, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has requested the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Andaman & Nicobar Islands to reopen stone quarries in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

In a letter addressed to the Lt. Governor, the Member of Parliament said that he has got feedback from various sections of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands that both private and public sector development initiatives are experiencing a substantial setback due to the unavailability of quarry materials in the Islands.

He added that the closure of all stone quarries for a long time has created a critical situation, leading to a fervent demand from the local populace for their immediate reopening.

He pointed out that this closure has had far-reaching consequences, impacting the progress of crucial developmental projects essential for the well-being of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. “The inability of both government agencies and private entities to access necessary quarry materials has not only impeded progress but has also compelled individuals in urgent need of such materials to pay exorbitant amounts, placing undue financial burden on the public,” the MP said.

Considering the gravity of these challenges, the Member of Parliament requested the Lt. Governor to prioritize this matter and take prompt action to reopen stone quarries in the Islands.

He said that such a decision would not only ease the difficulties faced by the local population but also expedite the speed of developmental projects crucial for our Islands.

“The reopening of quarries will undoubtedly have a positive ripple effect, benefitting not only the local community but also contributing to the overall development of the South Andaman Division. Additionally, it has the potential to generate much-needed revenue for the government,” he added.