Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug. 14: Andaman & Nicobar Administration is actively working on the refurbishment of the Chatham causeway to provide relief to the residents of South Andaman. In the interim, the Administration has enlisted the expertise of NIT Tiruchirappalli to carry out additional testing for exploring remedial measures for the existing structure. Preliminary assessments suggest that the bridge can be made suitable for light vehicular traffic following the necessary retrofitting work as a temporary measure. The project is anticipated to commence in a couple of months and is expected to be completed within six months from the start date.
Given the bridge’s critical role in regional connectivity and the grave safety concerns, the project is being monitored at the highest administrative level. The Andaman & Nicobar Administration also sought intervention from the Govt. of India for the early sanction and execution of a new Chatham causeway under appropriate central funding. A meeting was chaired by the Home Secretary on 8th August, 2025 in the matter, wherein senior officials of MoRTH and MoPSW were also present. NHIDCL has been assigned the work of construction of the new Chatham causeway along with Andaman Marine Drive road. The consultancy for the new Chatham Causeway has already been awarded by NHIDCL.
The Andaman & Nicobar Administration reiterates its commitment to ensure uninterrupted connectivity to the Chatham Island while also ensuring that public safety remains the top priority. All possible measures are being undertaken on war footing to get the causeway refurbished for public convenience.