NH4: Connecting towns in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The National Highway-4, or the NH4, is a major highway in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, connecting the capital city of Port Blair to Diglipur. This 230.7 km-long highway is also known as the Andaman Trunk Road. It has become a crucial means of transportation for the residents of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, playing a significant role in connecting the major towns and facilitating the movement of essential goods and services.

See also: NH544: Route and places to visit

 

NH4: History

The NH4 was initially a stretch of national highway that ran from Mumbai and stretched on to Pune, Hubli and Bangalore before ending in Chennai. However, after the renumbering of national highways in 2010, this stretch of highway was renamed as the NH48. Currently, the NH4, also known as the Andaman Trunk Road or The Great Andaman Trunk Road, is the primary highway in the Indian union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

 

NH4: Connectivity

The highway connects Port Blair to Diglipur and passes through several major towns like Ferrargunj, Baratang, Kadamtala, Rangat, Billy Ground, Nimbudera and Mayabunder. Prior to the 1970s, it used to take several days to transport people and cargo by sea, but now it can be completed in a matter of 10-12 hours owing to the NH4. This highway has facilitated the easy movement of essential commodities, healthcare facilities and other goods throughout the year.

 

NH4: Upgrades

Currently, the NH4 is undergoing a major upgrade, including the construction of two major bridges under NHIDCL costing Rs 1,511.22 crore. These upgrades are expected to improve the safety and convenience of the highway for travellers.

 

FAQs

What are the major towns connected by the NH4 in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

The NH4 connects Ferrargunj, Baratang, Kadamtala, Rangat, Billy Ground, Nimbudera, Mayabunder, and Diglipur.

What is the significance of the NH4?

The NH 4 serves as a lifeline for the residents of the Andaman group of islands, facilitating the movement of essential commodities, healthcare facilities and other goods.

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