Andhra Pradesh’s tourism-centric seaplane project gets Centre’s nod

Vijayawada: The construction of water aerodromes and landing facilities required to operate seaplane services at 10 locations in Andhra Pradesh has received approval from the Centre, officials familiar with the matter have said.The Centre has granted in-principle approval to provide financial assistance, under the UDAN scheme, for the construction of water aerodromes at Vijayawada, Srisailam, Visakhapatnam, Araku, Lambasingi, Kakinada, Rajahmundry, Tirupati, Suryalanka, and Dindi, with each project estimated to cost ₹20 crore. The UDAN scheme aims to improve regional air connectivity across the country.The state govt had shortlisted the 10 locations for seaplane services to promote tourism and enhance air connectivity in these regions. “No major works were carried out on the seaplane project in the past year. Now that the Centre has decided to extend financial support under the UDAN scheme, the state govt will begin the tendering process and construction of aerodromes to make the seaplane project a reality by 2027,” APTDC Water Fleet general manager Nancharaiah said.The official said approvals and clearances are also being sought from multiple departments, including irrigation and environment, after which the govt plans to develop the infrastructure in phases. He added that the govt aims to make seaplane services operational by Jan next year through the public-private partnership (PPP) model. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce travel time between major tourist destinations while offering a unique travel experience.“The administration plans to launch seaplane services first between Prakasam (Vijayawada) and Srisailam, which has been found most viable among all the proposed routes. Aerodrome works will begin soon at Berm Park upstream Prakasam barrage,” NTR district collector Dr G Lakshmisha said.Currently, successful seaplane operations are largely limited to premium tourist destinations such as the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Maldives. AP hopes the new project will position the state as a prominent tourism hub with modern and innovative transport infrastructure.