KOCHI : A seaplane ride from Kochi to Lakshadweep is now a step closer to reality. The detailed project report (DPR) for the ambitious plan, which is set to enhance direct connectivity to the islands from Kerala, will be ready by the end of January.
For seaplane operations, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has decided to develop a water aerodrome at the Cochin Port, and three in Lakshadweep -- Minicoy, Agatti and Kavaratti islands -- under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN. The MoCA has already given SpiceJet approval to operate seaplanes to the islands.
“The MoCA has sanctioned Rs 20 crore each to set up water aerodromes in these locations. The amount will be used for the construction of jetties, floating pontoons, passenger amenities, etc. The facilities are expected to be ready by December 2024,” said a senior Cochin Port official associated with the project. The official said that after conducting trials, seaplane services are likey to become operational by the end of the year.
SpiceJet will be operating seaplanes on the Kochi-Bangaram-Kochi, Kochi-Bitra-Kochi, and Kochi-Kalpeni-Kochi routes. “The Cochin Port has entrusted Gurgaon-based Feedback Highways OMT Pvt. Ltd with the task of conducting the detailed project report, surveys, and investigations on the project. Also, the process is on to obtain environmental clearance for the project,” the official added.
Currently, there are seven weekly flight services to Agatti island in Lakshadweep from the Kochi airport. “Once the seaplane services commence, the connectivity to Lakshadweep will be easy and affordable to the public,” the official said.
Last year, the Cochin Port forwarded the pre-feasibility reports for the development of water aerodromes on the three islands of Lakshadweep to the Airport Authority of India (AAI) for concurrence. In April, the AAI gave in-principle approval and asked the Cochin Port to proceed with the preparation of DPR, and development work to operationalise the water aerodromes in 2023–24.