Chatham Saw Mill, located in Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a popular tourist attraction known for its historical significance and scenic beauty. Established in 1883, the saw mill is considered one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia. In this article, we will explore the rich history, interesting facts, and tourist attractions of Chatham Saw Mill.
History of Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Saw Mill was established during the British colonial period in 1883. The mill was named after Viscount Chatham, the then British Secretary of State for India. The primary objective of the saw mill was to cater to the timber needs of the British Navy. The mill played a crucial role in shaping the economy of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands during the colonial period.
Interesting Facts About Chatham Saw Mill
- Chatham Saw Mill is considered one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia.
- The mill operates with the help of diesel engines, as it is not feasible to run it on electricity due to the location of the island.
- The mill can process up to 200 cubic meters of timber per day.
- The mill has been featured on Indian currency notes, specifically the INR 20 note.
- The mill has a museum that showcases various types of wood, the history of the mill, and the process of milling.
Tourist Attractions at Chatham Saw Mill
- The mill offers a scenic view of the surrounding forest and sea.
- The museum at the saw mill is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the history of the mill and various types of wood.
- The mill has a park adjacent to it that offers a tranquil and serene environment for visitors.
- The mill also has a bamboo furniture unit that produces beautiful and eco-friendly bamboo furniture.
- The mill offers a guided tour for visitors to understand the process of milling and the importance of timber in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The Significance of Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Saw Mill holds significant historical and economic importance for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The mill played a pivotal role in shaping the economy of the islands during the British colonial period. It also provided employment opportunities for the locals, who were otherwise dependent on fishing and agriculture for their livelihood.
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Today, the mill continues to contribute to the economy of the islands by catering to the timber needs of various industries. It also serves as a popular tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Chatham Saw Mill, Port Blair: A Tour of India’s Oldest Sawmill
Chatham Saw Mill, located in Port Blair, is the oldest sawmill in India. Established in 1883, the mill played a significant role in the Indian timber industry during the British era. Today, the mill stands as a testament to India’s rich industrial history and is a popular tourist attraction. In this article, we’ll take a tour of the Chatham Saw Mill and explore its various sections.
Location and Access
The Chatham Saw Mill is located on Chatham Island, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Visitors can access the mill by hiring a taxi or taking a local bus. The mill is open from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 4:30 pm, and on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm.
The Sawmill
The sawmill is the heart of Chatham Saw Mill. It houses a wide range of machines used for processing timber. The mill has a capacity to process around 200 cubic meters of timber per day. The machinery used in the mill includes circular saws, band saws, and planers. The mill processes a variety of timber, including padauk, gurjan, and satinwood.
The Museum
The museum at Chatham Saw Mill offers visitors a glimpse into the history of the mill and the timber industry. The museum has a collection of photographs and exhibits that showcase the various stages of the milling process. Visitors can also see the different types of timber processed in the mill. The museum is a must-visit for those interested in the history of the Indian timber industry.
The Lumberyard
The lumberyard is where the processed timber is stored before it is shipped to various parts of the country. The lumberyard has a capacity to store around 10,000 cubic meters of timber. The timber is seasoned in the yard for a period of 6-8 months before it is graded and packaged. The process of seasoning timber involves drying the timber in a controlled environment to reduce its moisture content.
Environmental Concerns
The Chatham Saw Mill has come under criticism for its impact on the environment. The mill generates a significant amount of waste, including sawdust and wood chips, which can pollute the surrounding area. To promote sustainability, the mill has implemented a range of measures to reduce its environmental impact. These measures include recycling waste and promoting sustainable forestry practices.
The Future of Chatham Saw Mill
The Indian government has plans to modernize and expand the Chatham Saw Mill. The proposed expansion includes the installation of modern machinery to increase the mill’s processing capacity. The expansion will also create more job opportunities for the local population.
The expansion will also incorporate sustainable practices to reduce the mill’s environmental impact. The modernization will bring the mill up to international standards and improve its competitiveness in the global market.
Conclusion
Chatham Saw Mill is an iconic landmark that holds immense historical and cultural significance for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is a must-visit destination for tourists who want to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the islands. The mill’s museum, park, and bamboo furniture unit offer a unique experience that is both educational and entertaining.
FAQs
- What is the significance of Chatham Saw Mill?
- Chatham Saw Mill holds significant historical and economic importance for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The mill played a pivotal role in shaping the economy of the islands during the British colonial period. It also provided employment opportunities for the locals, who were otherwise dependent on fishing and agriculture for their livelihood.
- What is the capacity of Chatham Saw Mill?
- The mill can process up to 200 cubic meters of timber per day.
- Can visitors take a guided tour of the mill?
- Yes, visitors can take a guided tour of the mill to understand the process of milling and the importance of timber in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- What is the special attraction of Chatham Saw Mill?