Soiru Velip
Panaji
Efforts to introduce seaplane services in Goa under the Centre’s regional connectivity initiative have failed to take off, with the proposed routes in the state now cancelled due to lack of preparedness on the part of the operator and infrastructure gaps.
Union Ministry of Civil Aviation had earlier rolled out seaplane operations under the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) 3.0 scheme to enhance last-mile air connectivity by utilising water aerodromes. In Goa, sites were identified in North Goa and South Goa for the development of facilities to enable the seaplane services.
To support the initiative, the central government had sanctioned Rs 100 crore under Revival and Development of Aerodromes Scheme for the development of 26 water aerodromes across the country, including the two proposed locations in Goa.
Under UDAN 4.2 bidding round, seaplane routes connecting South Goa and North Goa were awarded to SAR Aviation. The project, however, failed to progress beyond the planning stage. This was revealed in a reply tabled in the Parliament by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol in response to a question asked by Goa Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade.
According to official sources, the routes have been cancelled, as the operator was not ready to commence operations, while the required infrastructure at the identified sites also remained incomplete.
The cancellation underscores the persistent challenges involved in implementing seaplane projects, particularly in coastal states where regulatory clearances, environmental concerns and infrastructure readiness play a critical role.
Despite the initial optimism, the delay has dealt a setback to the efforts aimed at boosting tourism and improving intra-state connectivity through alternative aviation services.
The seaplane services in Goa were aimed at enhancing regional connectivity. The proposed services involved potential landings on the Mandovi and Chapora rivers. Some local groups had raised concerns about the impact on marine life and the fishing industry.
