TIRUPATI: In yet another major infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing Tirupati’s global tourism profile, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has approved the seaplane project at the historic Rayalacheruvu irrigation tank in Ramachandrapuram mandal of the district.
The ambitious project is expected to add one more feather to Tirupati’s crown and further strengthen its position as one of the country’s leading spiritual tourism destinations.
The Andhra Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has laid emphasis on transforming Tirupati not only into an internationally renowned pilgrimage centre but also into a major wedding, heritage and thematic tourism destination. As part of this broader development vision, the Tourism Department and the Tirupati district administration have intensified efforts to operationalise the seaplane project at the earliest.
Chandragiri MLA Pulivarthi Nani, along with senior officials from the Tourism, Irrigation and Revenue Departments, conducted an extensive field inspection at Rayalacheruvu recently and examined all technical, environmental and logistical feasibility aspects before finalising the location for seaplane landing operations.
Seaplane proj to emerge as major tourism attraction
Officials said Rayalacheruvu has emerged as the most suitable location due to its vast water spread, historical significance and strategic proximity to Tirupati and Tirumala. Spread across nearly 354 hectares, the centuries-old irrigation tank is located 14-18 km away from Tirupati City with strong road connectivity, making tourist movement highly convenient.
Historical references indicate that the tank was developed during the reign of Sri Krishnadevaraya, adding cultural and heritage value to the proposed tourism project.
The seaplane services are expected to provide a unique aerial view experience for pilgrims and visitors.
The project is likely to attract both domestic and international tourists visiting Tirupati and Tirumala.
Speaking to TNIE, Tourism Development Regional Director Ramana Prasad said, “The Chief Minister is giving top priority to the development of tourism infrastructure in Chandragiri constituency and Tirupati region. The seaplane project will be taken up at an estimated cost of Rs 20 crore.”
The Tourism, Irrigation and Revenue Departments have jointly prepared plans for acquisition of land for seaplane landing facilities, parking areas, passenger amenities and commercial establishments. Temporary containers for commercial outlets are likely to be installed in the initial phase of project development.
Tirupati District Collector S Venkateswar has been closely monitoring the progress of the seaplane project, conducting periodic review meetings.
The seaplane project is expected to emerge as a major tourism attraction and significantly contribute to the economic and tourism growth of Tirupati region.