+
Seaplane project in Kerala set for revival with demo operations
PORTS & SHIPPING

Seaplane project in Kerala set for revival with demo operations

Kerala’s long-delayed seaplane project is likely to be revived, with demonstration operations scheduled next month under the Centre's regional connectivity scheme, UDAN. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity along India's coastal areas. A high-level reconnaissance was conducted on October 3 to assess potential sites, involving representatives from De Havilland Canada, Cochin Port Trust, and the Indian Navy.

Three locations near Vembanad Lake were evaluated, with stakeholders narrowing down a water strip parallel to Marine Drive in Kochi as the preferred site. The assessment considered water depth, wind patterns, and safety factors. Experts indicated that the Marine Drive site offers the safest and most practical environment for operations.

This is not Kerala's first attempt to introduce seaplane services. A similar project in 2013 was abandoned following protests from fishermen, environmentalists, and political groups, who cited ecological risks and threats to livelihoods. The earlier plan was criticised for overlooking local concerns, leading to its suspension.

Marina at Bolgatty KTDC has emerged as the most suitable location for public functions, refueling, and embarkation, though upgrades will be required. These include repairing floating decks, installing handrails, and enhancing lighting for night operations. During the demo phase, the Marina Bay area will be reserved exclusively for seaplane activities.

In addition to the selected water strip at Marine Drive, Bolgatty Water Metro and High Court Water Metro stations were also considered as operational sites. However, both require significant infrastructure upgrades, such as pontoons and floating decks, to meet aircraft clearance standards.

The recce identified logistical challenges, including congestion from local boats and cruise traffic along the chosen strip. Traffic regulation will be essential, with the district administration and marine police coordinating to ensure smooth operations.

A follow-up meeting, chaired by the state’s chief secretary, was held to finalise safety protocols, operational details, and public engagement strategies, reflecting a renewed effort to balance infrastructure development with environmental and social concerns.

Kerala’s long-delayed seaplane project is likely to be revived, with demonstration operations scheduled next month under the Centre's regional connectivity scheme, UDAN. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity along India's coastal areas. A high-level reconnaissance was conducted on October 3 to assess potential sites, involving representatives from De Havilland Canada, Cochin Port Trust, and the Indian Navy. Three locations near Vembanad Lake were evaluated, with stakeholders narrowing down a water strip parallel to Marine Drive in Kochi as the preferred site. The assessment considered water depth, wind patterns, and safety factors. Experts indicated that the Marine Drive site offers the safest and most practical environment for operations. This is not Kerala's first attempt to introduce seaplane services. A similar project in 2013 was abandoned following protests from fishermen, environmentalists, and political groups, who cited ecological risks and threats to livelihoods. The earlier plan was criticised for overlooking local concerns, leading to its suspension. Marina at Bolgatty KTDC has emerged as the most suitable location for public functions, refueling, and embarkation, though upgrades will be required. These include repairing floating decks, installing handrails, and enhancing lighting for night operations. During the demo phase, the Marina Bay area will be reserved exclusively for seaplane activities. In addition to the selected water strip at Marine Drive, Bolgatty Water Metro and High Court Water Metro stations were also considered as operational sites. However, both require significant infrastructure upgrades, such as pontoons and floating decks, to meet aircraft clearance standards. The recce identified logistical challenges, including congestion from local boats and cruise traffic along the chosen strip. Traffic regulation will be essential, with the district administration and marine police coordinating to ensure smooth operations. A follow-up meeting, chaired by the state’s chief secretary, was held to finalise safety protocols, operational details, and public engagement strategies, reflecting a renewed effort to balance infrastructure development with environmental and social concerns.

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Telangana Allocates Rs 4.30 Bn for Mir Alam Iconic Bridge

The Telangana government has enhanced the sanctioned budget for the construction of a high-level bridge across Mir Alam Tank, raising the outlay from Rs 3.63 billion to Rs 4.30 billion. The project will be executed by the Musi Riverfront Development Corporation (MRDCL) under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode.This bridge, considered an iconic infrastructure initiative, will connect the Bengaluru National Highway at Shastripuram to Chintalmet. The revised sanction supersedes an earlier government order from March 2024, which had initially outlined a four-lane bridge under..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

DPR for Tiruchi Semi-Ring Road Project Nearing Completion

The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Tiruchi’s semi-ring road project—which aims to connect five major national highways—is expected to be finalised by the end of August, said sources at the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).Prepared by a consultancy, the DPR is in its final stages and covers multiple components, including the widening of the existing two-lane Thuvakudi–Panjapur bypass into a four-lane stretch, and construction of a new four-lane bypass between Panjapur and Thindukarai on the Tiruchi–Karur National Highway. The plan also includes an elevated corridor near ..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Kolkata Metro Conducts Trial Run on Airport-Noapara Stretch

Kolkata Metro has conducted a successful trial run on the Airport–Noapara stretch of the Yellow Line, aimed at enhancing connectivity to the city’s airport and easing urban commute.The 7-km stretch is expected to significantly reduce travel time and traffic congestion in the region. Metro Railway General Manager P. Uday Kumar Reddy oversaw the trial run and also visited the Jai Hind Biman Bandar station to brief officials.“This stretch, once commissioned, would be a revolutionary step in providing a modern transport system to the people of Kolkata and suburbs to reach the airport,” a M..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?