Port Blair, Aug 22: In the wake of the recent unfortunate collapse of the Panighat Jetty, the Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has demanded a comprehensive safety survey of all old jetties in the Islands.

In a letter addressed to the Lt. Governor, A&N Islands, the Member of Parliament said that the collapse of the Panighat Jetty, while resulting in no major injuries, has ignited serious concerns within people of these Islands.

He mentioned that given the geographic vulnerability of the Islands to seismic activities, ensuring the structural integrity of maritime infrastructure is paramount.

In this regard, Sharma appealed to the Lt. Governor to issue necessary directions to the concerned department for a comprehensive safety survey of all old jetties of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

“This proactive approach aims to establish a high-level team of experts comprising defence, maritime and engineering professionals. This team would identify potential weaknesses and recommend structural enhancements to bolster the safety of these vital coastal structures,” he mentioned.