Influx, a threat to Andaman and Nicobar islands

Port Blair, Jan 24: Influx of population in the remote areas ofAndaman and Nicobar islands is becoming a cause of serious concerninviting oppositions from all over the territory.

''We are demanding for an urgent solution of influx, which hasbecome a threat to us,'' G Raju, a prominent member of Local BornAssociation, told UNI today.

The Local Born Association, a group for islanders, whose familieswere living in these remote islands since more than five decades, hadbeen protesting against the influx.

Recently a delegation of the association had submitted amemorandum to the new Lt Governor of the islands seeking prevention ofthe increasing influx.

According to the 2001 census the territory's total population was3,56,265 but the latest report says figure had reached to nearly 4.5Lakh.

Though the Supreme Court had declared a inner line to check influxnothing had been done in this regard by local administration, HELP(Healthy Environment and Less Pollution) secretary Subashish Ray said.

''The main problem due to the influx is shortage of land,'' said a local farmer.

The other problems include water crisis, excessive use of electricity, unemployement and increasing crime, Mr Ray claimed.

Various other organisations in the islands have also raised voiceagainst continuous influx, especially from the South Indian states.

UNI >