Kerala's Seaplane Dream Faces Turbulence As CPI Protests Backwater Landing

While Kerala is leaving no stone unturned in welcoming its first seaplane, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has opposed the idea. The party claimed that the seaplane would not be allowed to touch down in the state’s backwaters.

(Image for representation purpose only) Kerala's Seaplane Dream Faces Turbulence As CPI Protests Backwater Landing

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Alappuzha CPI district secretary PJ Angelos has cautioned that protests would be stepped up, stressing that likely loss of income for fishermen would not be acceptable. Angelos noted disruptions during the inaugural flight of the seaplane, during which he alleged that other passengers were held captive for several hours. The CPI asserts that the plane can dock on airstrips but waterdromes will be a no-go. The Fishermen Coordination Committee is planning to meet on November 20 to strategize their next steps.

The first seaplane of the state, which is an amphibious aircraft i.e. has capacity of taking off and landing from both land and water, received in Kochi from Mysuru. On Monday, the aircraft took off from the backwaters of Kochi and landed at the Mattupetty dam, located in the hilly region of Idukki district.

The De Havilland Canada, which has completed its service trials in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and arrived in Kochi, is operated by a private firm based in Switzerland and SpiceJet. SpiceJet manages the route while De Havilland, the Canadian designer of the aircraft, provides engineering support and helps with operational and technical support, stated an official.

The seaplane services is provided as part of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UDAN, under the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA). As per the announcement, state intends to improve the interconnectivity between its airports and the hill stations and backwaters by providing fare concessions.

As per the statement, top officers from Cochin Port Trust and the Indian Navy together with De Havilland Canada visited the places and assessed logistical issues faced. It further stated that prior to the services commencement, feasibility and hydrographic surveys were also done so as to provide integrated services.

Apart from Bolgatty and Mattupetti, seaplane connectivity is being explored for Kovalam, Ashtamudi, Punnamada, Kumarakom, Vembanad, Malampuzha and Bekal, the statement said.