Chatham Saw Mill

The Chatham Saw Mill is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia, located on Chatham Island near Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Established during the British colonial era, it remains a remarkable example of early industrial engineering and continues to operate today as both a working mill and a heritage site.

Historical Background

The Chatham Saw Mill was founded in 1883 by the British to meet the growing demand for timber required for construction and shipbuilding across the islands and mainland India. It was originally known as the British Imperial Saw Mill and served as a major industrial centre under colonial administration.
During World War II, the mill sustained severe damage when Japanese forces bombed Chatham Island. The remains of bomb pits and bunkers from that period still exist and serve as historical reminders of wartime activity in the Andaman Islands. After India’s independence, the mill was brought under the administration of the Andaman and Nicobar Forest Department, which continues to manage it to this day.

Location and Infrastructure

Chatham Saw Mill is situated on Chatham Island, which is connected to Port Blair by a narrow bridge approximately 100 metres long. The mill complex includes large timber processing sheds, machinery rooms, administrative offices, and a museum. The island itself is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, and its location near Port Blair makes it easily accessible to both locals and visitors.
The mill is designed to process logs from the dense forests of the Andaman Islands. The facility houses a variety of machinery, ranging from traditional saws to modern mechanical cutters, allowing efficient conversion of raw timber into usable products such as planks, beams, and veneers.

Operations and Production

Since its inception, the Chatham Saw Mill has processed timber from species such as Andaman Padauk, Gurjan, and Satinwood, all known for their strength and aesthetic quality. The mill supplies timber for local construction, shipbuilding, furniture making, and handicrafts.
The production process involves several stages, including:

• Log Sorting and Scaling: Logs are measured and categorised by size and quality.
• Sawing and Cutting: Large saws and cutters process the timber into planks and boards.
• Seasoning and Treatment: The wood is dried and treated to enhance durability and prevent decay.
• Finishing: Selected wood is polished and crafted into various products for commercial use.

Today, the mill operates both as a production centre and a heritage landmark, balancing industrial activity with conservation efforts.

The Forest Museum

An integral part of the Chatham Saw Mill complex is the Forest Museum, which showcases the island’s natural and industrial heritage. The museum exhibits:

• Samples of local timber species,
• Wooden artefacts and carvings crafted by local artisans,
• Photographs and models depicting the history of the sawmill, and
• Information on the flora and fauna of the Andaman forests.

The museum educates visitors about sustainable forestry and the historical role of timber production in the Andaman economy. It also highlights the craftsmanship and artistry associated with wood-based industries in the region.

Tourism and Visitor Experience

Chatham Saw Mill is a prominent tourist attraction in Port Blair, offering visitors a rare insight into both the industrial and natural history of the islands. The site is open to visitors on weekdays and Saturdays between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., remaining closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Guided tours allow visitors to observe the sawmill operations and learn about the machinery, processing methods, and conservation practices. The remnants of Japanese bunkers and the bomb pit from World War II add to the historical intrigue of the location.
The mill is located approximately 4 kilometres from central Port Blair, making it easily accessible by road. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to March, when weather conditions are favourable for sightseeing.

Significance and Legacy

The Chatham Saw Mill holds great historical and economic importance for the Andaman Islands. It symbolises the region’s transition from a colonial resource centre to a model of sustainable forest management.
Its significance can be understood through the following aspects:

• Industrial Heritage: Represents one of the earliest examples of large-scale mechanised timber processing in Asia.
• Historical Value: A living monument of British-era industrial architecture and wartime resilience.
• Economic Contribution: Continues to support local industries, employment, and craftsmanship.
• Tourist Appeal: Serves as a key heritage attraction that educates visitors about the environmental and cultural legacy of the islands.

Conservation and Management

Under the supervision of the Andaman and Nicobar Forest Department, efforts are made to ensure sustainable use of forest resources. The department enforces regulations on timber extraction and promotes eco-friendly manufacturing practices within the mill.
Educational initiatives and museum exhibits emphasise the importance of balancing resource utilisation with conservation. Reforestation projects and eco-tourism programmes are also integrated into the region’s broader environmental management strategy.