Port Blair, Oct. 19: The Member of Parliament, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has demanded immediate resumption of the Kolkata ship service via Mayabunder, a lifeline for the residents of Mayabunder and the northern regions of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, the Member of Parliament said that for an extended period, a well-established practice had been in place, where ships to Kolkata were scheduled via Mayabunder from Port Blair, occurring monthly once or twice. This strategic arrangement aimed to provide the local population with a more convenient and accessible means of transportation, eliminating the need for them to undertake the arduous journey to Port Blair to access ships or flights to Kolkata.

He added that this service not only catered to the needs of passengers but also played a pivotal role in streamlining the movement of cargo from the mainland to the North & Middle Andaman Islands, contributing significantly to the region's development.

The Member of Parliament also mentioned that for reasons unknown, this invaluable service was abruptly halted, resulting in substantial hardships for the residents of Mayabunder and other North Andaman regions. Adding to the challenges, the NH4, had deteriorated to a deplorable state, making it exceedingly difficult for people to travel to Port Blair for access to Kolkata-bound ships or flights.

In light of these pressing issues, the Member of Parliament requested the Chief Secretary to resume the vital Kolkata ship service via Mayabunder, at least once in a month.