Port Blair, March 25: The A&N Administration has taken various steps for preservation of culture and heritage of these Islands. Various heritage sites have been identified by the Administration and are being considered for preservation by the State Heritage Committee. One of the important sites taken up by the Administration is the Viper Island. Two distinct sites for development have been identified in the Viper Island, having separate access.

The Viper Island has an area of around 31.2 hectares. The prominent heritage structures in this Island are the Gallows and the Guard House. In the first phase, the Administration has taken up a holistic development plan which includes preservation of the Gallows and Guard house and landscaping of the area around these structures. This project is likely to be completed within 12 months. The project envisages 2 mtr. wide pathway with a gentle gradient to reach the gallows, six wooden canopies to provide sitting arrangements for the visitors, and toilets etc. Greening of the area with proper signage is also planned.

In the next phase, the Administration proposes to develop and landscape the area around the other heritage structures/ruins spread over 17 hectares of the Viper Island.

Around 2 hectares out of the total area of the Island has been segregated and earmarked for the Yacht Marina Project and will have a separate access. The 50 berth Yacht Marina at Viper Island envisages a small coastal dock or basin with moorings and supplies for yachts/small boats. It differs from a port in that a marina does not handle large passenger or cargo ships. Basically, it is a facility for anchoring yachts/small boats for their security, with repair and fuelling facilities. The Marina Project at Viper Island will also include accommodation facility for the crew. The Yacht Marina will have a separate approach and will be effectively monitored by the marine police.

As per the agreement, the concessionaire of the Yacht Marina Project is bound to appoint atleast 60% of the staff from among the local residents of the A & N Islands. Expected to be completed in 3 years, the marina will provide an overall facelift to this island and also generate employment opportunities for local unemployed youth and generate revenue for the Administration.

It is expected that these projects will give a fillip to tourism in the Islands and also boost the overall development of the region. The Administration is committed to ensure that the sanctity of the heritage of the Viper island endures and gets recognition and attention from visitors from across the country and the world.