The Chatham Saw Mill, located on Chatham Island near Port Blair, is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia. Established in 1883 during British colonial rule, this historic sawmill has played a crucial role in the development of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The mill was originally set up to cater to the growing demand for timber by the British government for construction projects and infrastructure development. Today, it stands as a symbol of the region’s rich history, natural resources, and industrial heritage.

Historical Significance

The Chatham Saw Mill was constructed shortly after the British established a penal colony in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The islands were covered with dense forests, rich in valuable timber such as teak, mahogany, gurjan, and padauk. To exploit this vast natural resource, the British built the sawmill on Chatham Island, which is connected to Port Blair by a small bridge. The mill provided timber for various purposes, including shipbuilding, government buildings, and other colonial infrastructure projects both in the Andamans and on the mainland of India.

The Chatham Saw Mill also holds historical importance for surviving the intense Japanese bombing raids during World War II. In 1942, when the Japanese occupied the Andaman Islands, the mill suffered extensive damage. However, it was rebuilt after the war and resumed operations, continuing to be a vital part of the island’s economy.

Operations and Infrastructure

The Chatham Saw Mill spans an area of over 100 acres and is known for its impressive production capacity. It processes a variety of hardwoods, most notably Andaman Padauk, which is famous for its unique grain and red color. Over the years, the mill has contributed significantly to the forestry industry by supplying wood to various parts of India.

The mill’s operations involve cutting and processing large logs of timber brought in from the forests of the Andaman Islands. The entire process, from debarking to sawing, takes place in different sections of the mill. Visitors can witness the sawmill in action, observing how massive logs are sliced into planks and beams for various uses. The machinery, some of which dates back to the colonial period, is still in use, giving visitors a glimpse into the industrial processes of the past.

Museum and Exhibits

In recent years, the Chatham Saw Mill has been developed into a tourist attraction, with a dedicated museum showcasing the history of the mill, its operations, and the timber industry in the Andaman Islands. The museum provides valuable insights into the colonial legacy of the mill, the various types of timber processed there, and the importance of the forestry sector in the development of the islands.

The exhibits include:

• Antique machinery used in the sawmill during the early 20th century.
• Photographs and documents tracing the history of the mill, from its establishment by the British to its role in the post-independence era.
• Samples of different types of wood processed at the mill, including Andaman Padauk and teak, as well as finished products such as wooden furniture and artifacts.
• Displays on the Japanese bombing of the mill during World War II and the rebuilding efforts afterward.

The museum also provides educational information on the different species of trees found in the Andaman forests, the sustainable forestry practices being adopted to protect the islands' natural resources, and the challenges faced by the industry in modern times.

Environmental and Economic Role

The Chatham Saw Mill has historically been a key player in the Andaman Islands' economy, particularly in the timber trade. However, over the years, with growing awareness of environmental conservation and the need to protect the unique biodiversity of the islands, there have been significant changes in the way the forestry industry operates. The government has imposed strict regulations on timber logging and processing to preserve the island’s rich natural environment.

The sawmill now focuses on sustainable practices, ensuring that timber is harvested in an environmentally responsible manner. The mill’s role has shifted from being a purely industrial entity to one that is more balanced with ecological conservation. The wood from the sawmill is primarily used for local needs and government projects, reducing the strain on forest resources.

Heritage and Tourism

The Chatham Saw Mill is not only an industrial site but also a key tourist destination in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The unique combination of history, industry, and environmental education draws visitors who are interested in learning about the region’s colonial past, its natural resources, and its journey toward sustainability.

Visitors can take guided tours of the mill, where they can see firsthand how timber is processed, from the raw logs to the finished planks. The guides provide detailed explanations of the machinery and processes involved, making the tour both educational and fascinating for those interested in engineering, history, or forestry.

The Chatham Island jetty, located nearby, is another point of interest. It serves as the main shipping point for timber from the sawmill and offers scenic views of the surrounding waters and the islands. Additionally, the island's natural beauty, with its dense mangroves and coastal landscapes, makes the visit to Chatham Island even more enjoyable.

Conclusion

The Chatham Saw Mill is more than just a functional industrial facility; it is a living museum of the Andaman Islands' colonial past, industrial heritage, and natural wealth. Its role in shaping the economy of the islands, combined with its history of resilience through wartime destruction, makes it a landmark of both cultural and historical importance. For visitors to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a trip to the Chatham Saw Mill offers a unique opportunity to experience a blend of history, industry, and nature conservation in one of India’s most remote and beautiful regions.