Port Blair, Mar. 1: The common refrain has been that since 1992, maximum amount of money has been spent in the Marina area, so the aim of the Govt. is to now develop a different level of sea experiences from Flag Point to Corbyn’s Cove. Many plans are afoot, many suggestions from people have been called and many facilities have been planned. To materialize this vision, the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Shri Jitendra Narain undertook an extensive inspection of the entire stretch from Flag Point to Corbyn’s Cove this morning.
The visit was aimed at making the area more alluring by creating feasible assets to facilitate nature based activities in the area, keeping in mind the mesmerising locale overlooking the sea offering tremendous scope for tourism activities. The Chief Secretary was accompanied by team of Officers comprising of Secretaries from various Departments, Police, Forest and officials from PBMC and APWD.
It may be recalled that the Chief Secretary inspected this entire stretch from Corbyn’s Cove to Flag Point on Dec. 30, 2021 and issued instructions for the beautification of the area. During this visit, the Chief Secretary ascertained the progress of works being carried out as per his earlier directions.
The visit today began from Flag Point during which, the Chief Secretary instructed APWD and PBMC to work out ways for erecting a giant screen for showing entertainment programmes opposite the Flag Point for the muse of islanders and tourist visiting this spot. He also directed to create a Cafeteria in the vicinity for the visitors besides creation of Nicobari huts facilitating visitors to enjoy the sea view along with the joy of experiencing the traditions of Nicobar. Florification of the area with exotic flora was also stressed along the way.
The Chief Secretary further directed to create a circular walkway opposite JNRM in the sea area serving as a ‘Selfie Point’ for visitors to click photographs with Flag Point at its backdrop. He also asked the concerned authorities to look into the prospects of developing a sea-link walkway, connecting Flag Point to Hornbill Nest. This will not only give an aesthetic look but also improve the connectivity thereby boosting tourism. Apart from this, people will also have a chance to dedicate benches, pergolas, beautiful sheds, lamp posts to their family and loved ones, he said.
At the area near Science Centre, the Chief Secretary issued directions to explore possibilities of creating zip line and similar activities connecting Science Centre and the area overlooking the sea for adventure activities for public. Further, for optimal utilization of natural scenery next to the sea, he directed that wherever possible, stairs should be constructed so that people can access the sea area. He issued directions to create an all-weather capsule similar to transparent glass lift system for easy accessibility from the sea area to the road by senior citizens. The Chief Secretary further instructed that 5-6 cafeterias along the stretch must be developed with sufficient seating arrangements so that more people can visit and enjoy the scenic beauty of this sea facing area. “The Govt’s vision is now to focus more from Flag Point to Corbyn’s Cove to make it a continuum of sea experiences”, the Chief Secretary remarked.
Thereafter, the Chief Secretary visited Corbyn’s Cove area and issued directions to dock the boats in alignment so that the ambience of the beach area remains organized. The Chief Secretary desired that various points along the route viz. opposite to the Science Centre, Goodwill Estate, ANIIMS and next to Corbyn’s Cove entrance should be developed as places of recreation for the public. The development of the above areas would require landscaping, pruning of trees and removal of bushes. He further directed that development of ample parking space should be the foremost priority before initiating beautification work in the entire stretch. The Chief Secretary noted with satisfaction the progress of work at Corbyn’s Cove by PBMC as per his earlier directions.
Further, the Chief Secretary directed to install solar power light on Snake Island as an added attraction especially during the night. He also issued a stern warning to stop the dumping of garbage in the entire stretch and asked the authorities to take strict action against the offenders. The Chief Secretary also urged the private land owners to beautify their facades so that the area looks attractive.
To accomplish the above directions, Officers of Administration as well as Police were made in-charges of various areas to oversee the planning and development of the same for its timely execution and completion.
After the election, more participative interaction and ideas will be incorporated, the Chief Secretary mentioned.