Seaplanes landing on dams may disturb elephants, forest dept warns; Minister Riyas addresses concerns

KOCHI: After the inauguration, the forest department has raised concerns over the proposed seaplane project, specifically regarding plans to make the Mattupetty Dam in Aanathara part of the initiative. Officials from the department cautioned that the seaplane's landing could disturb the local elephant population. This concern was voiced during a joint inspection, though the department clarified it has no objection to the current trial landing.

In response, Minister Muhammad Riyas told media that the seaplane route is still under review and necessary discussions will be held to address the department’s concerns. He emphasized that the project will prioritize routes with minimal environmental impact. As part of a trial run, a seaplane was flown from Kochi to Mattupetty Dam and Riyas noted that operating a seaplane over the dam should not pose an issue. He also referenced past opposition, noting that during the Oommen Chandy administration's seaplane project, left-leaning unions staged protests.

The minister stated that this project will progress through dialogue with labor unions, adding that the situation today differs from previous years, with central policies now more open to such initiatives. He refrained from delving into past controversies, highlighting instead that the United Democratic Front government previously implemented the project without thorough consultation and started it in different locations.

With the current launch in Kochi, Riyas expressed optimism that the seaplane project will transform the tourism sector, providing affordable group travel options for the general public. The government aims to introduce this service at a low cost to make it accessible to more people, he added.