Dehradun: The state of Uttarakhand is accelerating efforts to develop seaplane-based tourism, aiming to enhance connectivity to remote destinations and promote adventure tourism across its scenic water bodies. Following successful trial landings in Rishikesh and Tehri Lake, the government is now preparing to expand operations to additional identified reservoirs.
DGCA Identifies New Water Aerodrome Sites
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has shortlisted several water bodies for future seaplane operations, including:
- Nanaksagar Lake in Udham Singh Nagar
- Haripur Reservoir
- Kalagarh Lake in Pauri district
These sites are expected to undergo trial seaplane landings as part of the next phase of evaluation before commercial operations begin.
Successful Trials in Rishikesh and Tehri
Seaplane operations in Uttarakhand have already seen successful trial landings at:
- Rishikesh Barrage
- Tehri Lake
These trials marked an important milestone in the state’s efforts to introduce water-based aviation services, demonstrating technical feasibility and operational readiness.
The initiative is being developed under the broader vision of creating a dedicated seaplane circuit in the state.
Seaplane Circuit to Boost Tourism and Connectivity
The Uttarakhand government is working on a proposed seaplane circuit plan designed to connect remote and scenic tourist destinations. The project aims to:
- Improve access to remote hill and water-based destinations
- Offer tourists a unique aerial-water travel experience
- Strengthen adventure and eco-tourism in the region
- Enhance overall tourism infrastructure in the state
Officials believe the initiative will position Uttarakhand as a premium destination for experiential tourism.
Economic and Employment Opportunities Expected
Authorities expect the seaplane project to bring significant socio-economic benefits, including:
- Increased tourism footfall
- Growth in local hospitality and transport sectors
- New employment opportunities in tourism and aviation support services
- Boost to regional economic development in surrounding areas
The project is also expected to encourage private sector participation in tourism infrastructure.
Phase-Wise Implementation Strategy
According to senior officials from the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA), the project will be implemented in phases.
Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority Additional Chief Executive Officer Sanjay Tolia stated that seaplane operations will first be stabilized at Tehri and Rishikesh. Once successful, the government will move towards developing a full-fledged seaplane circuit across the state.
