Diglipur, Andaman & Nicobar Islands: In a significant development for Andaman tourism, the maiden trial landing of a Pawan Hans helicopter was successfully completed at Smith Island, locally known as Sagar Dweep, on July 10th. The helicopter journey from VS Pally to Smith Island took only seven minutes, paving the way for a revolutionary new mode of transport that is expected to be operational by the end of the year.
This new helicopter service is anticipated to provide breathtaking aerial views of the famous twin islands in North Andaman, Ross and Smith, and significantly cut travel time compared to the traditional 20-minute fiber boat ride from the Aerial Bay jetty in Diglipur to Ross Island. The introduction of this service is set to attract a surge of high-end business-class tourists, enhancing the local tourism industry.
The helipad on Smith Island, initially constructed in 2015 under the MGNREGA scheme, has now been developed into a permanent structure by the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD). This development is expected to revolutionize the travel experience for visitors, offering a unique and comfortable journey to the pristine islands.
Mrs. Krishna Biswas, former ward member of Sagar Dweep, shared her excitement with “The Andaman Express,” stating, “The introduction of the heli service will boost the tourism industry with an influx of high-end business-class tourists to Ross & Smith Islands. This service will transform tourism here by offering breathtaking aerial views and comfortable travel options.”
Tourism stakeholders in Diglipur are advocating for the administration to maintain a consistent helicopter service, emphasizing its potential benefits for the local economy and community development. There is also a push for improved access to the Ross and Smith Islands beach, located approximately seven kilometers from the helipad.
To facilitate better connectivity, a 4.5-kilometer cement concrete (CC) road has been completed, capable of serving up to eight family villages, with only a 100-meter stretch and a culvert pending. However, reaching the beach remains challenging due to the forested area. An alternative route from the helipad to Dongi Ghat was proposed several years ago but remains pending.
Mrs. Biswas highlighted the importance of completing these infrastructure projects, stating, “The authorities must prioritize the completion of the route to ensure easy access to the Ross and Smith Islands beach, a project envisioned ten years ago.”
As the region prepares for this significant boost in tourism, the helicopter service is expected to offer visitors unparalleled views and a unique travel experience, solidifying Ross and Smith Islands as premier destinations in North Andaman.
