Lt. Governor Manohar Lal Kampani had chalked out an ambitious itinerary for inspection and review of pending projects at Car Nicobar Island. A day prior to the trysted visit, a severe tropical, typical Bay of Bengal cyclone struck Car Nicobar, turning the Island into a huge aquatic pool.The powerful manifestation of nature’s authoritative display totally disarrayed the normal life, both of the poorly inhabitants and better equipped officials.
Strong high velocity winds uprooted a number of trees and transmission lines, leaving them in a sad state of ruffled disarray, vehicles broke down with briny sea water entered their cylinders.There was a general inundation across the entire Island, the ring road remained immersed in few feet of water.
Lt. Governor Kampani was apprised about the course of these furious natural developments, recommending postponement of the program, which fell on deaf ears. This stiffening of attitude sparked a state of extreme anxiety and consternation among the hosts, officialdom remaining totally blank about handling of the unforeseen situation.
After encountering innumerable hardships we struggled hard to reach the airport just in the nick of time.At Air Force base we were all lined up just like obedient school children during a school assembly, all set to accord a warm welcome to our chief guest in highly dampening weather conditions. The Lt. Governor arrived sharp at 8.30 hrs. After exchanging usual pleasantries, coming down to brass tacks, he inquired about the details of his two day tour program.
Without mincing any words, questioned about the mode of his transportation to the various inspection sites. All officials bore an expressionless look on their faces, trying to camouflage their growing mental remorse. Seeing this state of affairs, the LG straightforwardly questioned me about the contingency arrangements made.
Confidentially I replied that suitable planning had been ensured for a smooth timely inspection. ALL eyes now got transfixed on me, everyone in a state of disbelief. Not keeping onlookers in suspense for long, signaled driver of the Public Works Dept. 4 X 4 dumper to bring forward his “stallion” reserved for ferrying the VIP and his entourage during the prevailing emergency.
Lt. Governor Manohar Lal Kampani seemed delighted at this innovative proposal.While I was having the last laugh, the stumped officials were giving me a scornful look. Hurriedly chairs were placed in the freight cubicle of a huge dumper for accommodating our esteemed guest.Even though climbing up was a problem for some unfit officers, LG on account of his fitness and agility, being first one to take his seat in this handy contraption.
Years later delightedly watched on CNN the US President Barack Obama comfortably touring the tornado hit, badly submerged waterlogged areas in a similar fashion. At that time what perchance seemed odd for Indian officials was for the US President a highly practical solution during such a contingency situation.In Punjab, rather across the whole of India such scenes appear quite common. People traverse in trucks, tractor trailers and animal driven vehicles to reach their dingy work places, bustling markets, colorful fairs and crowded religious congregations.
These hardy persons even enthusiastically undertake a several days uncomfortable journey to famous shrine of Guru Gobind Singh at Nanded situated in southern Deccan plateau.The transport authorities turning a blind eye to such open flouting of Motor Vehicle rules, since this is perennially persisting problem.This drubbing of rules was on account of widespread poverty and inadequacy of basic resources.
Lt. Governor’s tour turned to be a grand success, by late afternoon the water started retracted, considerably receding on account of absence of any further rain.The inspection was remarkably completed well within the stipulated schedule. LG appreciatively mentioned to all officers that had it not been for my novel idea, his tour would have been in jeopardy.
Next day at time of departure, Mr. Kampani firmly shook hands with me, once again complimenting me for practical intervention, which helped in combating inclement weather and making his visit a grand success.
Note: Manohar Lal Kampani was the first Lt. Governor of Andaman Nicobar. He joined the Indian Army as a commissioned officer and later joined the Indian Administrative Service. Mr. Kampani died on 22 April 2021, in New Delhi, at the age of 96 years.
( Author of the article is a former Deputy Commissioner of Delhi Police. Story is based on his experience during his posting as police officer in Andaman Nicobar )
