The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways recently announced its ambitious new initiative: the Sagarmala Seaplane Services (SSPS). The SSPS project aims to utilise seaplanes – fixed-wing aircraft capable of taking off from and landing on water – as alternative modes of transportation, with prospective airline operators managing operations under a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) framework.
The Mechanism
The underlying mechanism of the SSPS project revolves around a SPV framework. This legal entity, specifically developed for this unique purpose, serves as the foundation for the upcoming seaplane services. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways will initiate the project, with potential airline operators offering their services under the SPV structure.
Project Implementation
When it comes to actual project implementation, it would be handled through the Sagarmala Development Company Ltd (SDCL). Falling under the administrative control of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the SDCL would work alongside airline operators, inviting them to form a SPV. The routes of operation may lie within the government’s subsidised ude desh ka aam nagrik (UDAN) scheme.
Location and Routes
The envisioned seaplane services would span across multiple locations within the nation, providing a significant enhancement to connectivity and making travel more quick and comfortable.
Benefits and Significance
Seaplanes come with an array of benefits. They aren’t just another means of transportation but are expected to be a game-changer for domestic and international tourism. The seaplane services will provide air connectivity to remote religious and tourist locations, allowing holidaymakers easier and faster access to these spots. It could potentially stimulate localised short distance traveling, especially in hilly regions or across rivers and lakes.
There are other benefits as well. Infrastructure enhancements are expected at places of operation, which should also help stimulate job growth and provide employment opportunities.
Earlier Projects
This isn’t the first time seaplanes have been introduced in India. A Seaplane Service has already been operational between Kevadia and Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad, which was inaugurated in October 2020.
Sagarmala Programme
The SSPS project is a part of the Sagarmala Programme – a holistic port infrastructure development initiative approved by the Union Cabinet in 2015. The programme is aimed at revolutionising port infrastructure along the 7,516-km long coastline via modernisation, mechanisation and computerisation.
Under this port-led development framework, the government hopes to triple its cargo traffic. It plans to establish strong rail/road linkages with port terminals, thereby providing last-mile connectivity. The programme also includes the development of linkages with new regions and enhanced multi-modal connectivity, incorporating rail, inland water, coastal and road services.
