Sri Vijaya Puram | August 22, 2026
Member of Parliament for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray, has requested the South Andaman District Administration to arrange a joint inspection of the proposed immersion site at Chatham for the upcoming Ganesh and Durga Puja idol immersions in Sri Vijaya Puram.
In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, the MP stated that representations had been received from various organisations and public representatives regarding arrangements for the forthcoming idol immersion ceremonies.
The letter notes that the traditional immersion site at Chatham Bridge is currently unavailable due to repair and maintenance works. It also highlights difficulties previously experienced at the alternative Junglighat/Marina area, including inadequate water depth during low tide, resurfacing of idols, traffic congestion and other logistical and environmental concerns.
Against this backdrop, Shri Ray has proposed that the New Vehicle Ferry Jetty/Solid Jetty at Chatham be considered as a designated immersion point, citing its reported water depth and accessibility for the movement of idols and accompanying vehicles.
The MP has requested a joint site inspection by the Port Management Board, District Administration, Police/Marine Police, Fire & Emergency Services, Disaster Management authorities and other concerned agencies, along with representatives of the Puja Committees.
The proposed inspection would help assess the suitability and safety of the location before a final decision is taken.
The letter also calls for arrangements relating to cleanliness, crowd and traffic management, and removal of debris following the immersion ceremonies.
With the festival season approaching, Shri Ray has urged the authorities to take up the matter on priority so that Puja Committees have sufficient time to make the necessary logistical arrangements.
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