Seaplane Services to Boost Tribal Tourism in Andhra Pradesh Hills Areas
The State government’s plan to introduce seaplane services in tribal tourist destinations, including Araku and Lambasingi, is expected to take shape soon under the Centre’s UDAN scheme.
The initiative, aimed at boosting tourism connectivity, is being taken up with financial support from the Centre, officials said. The project proposes the development of water aerodromes and floating jetties at key reservoirs such as Jollaput in the Araku region and Sileru near Lambasingi.
Public consultations for these sites have already been completed, according to sources in the Tourism Department.
Officials are also examining the feasibility of setting up a water aerodrome at the Tajangi reservoir, located about seven kilometres from Lambasingi. The State has identified ten locations for introducing seaplane connectivity linking rivers, reservoirs, and coastal stretches, with preparatory works including land acquisition underway.
The project will be implemented after obtaining environmental clearances from the Union government, officials said.
The Tourism Department expects the initiative to improve tourist inflow to tribal regions, which already attract large numbers of visitors to Araku and Lambasingi for their natural landscapes, waterfalls, and hill ecosystems. The proposed Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum in Lambasingi is also expected to add to tourist interest in the region.
Officials said enhanced air-water connectivity is likely to improve accessibility and encourage longer stays by visitors.
The project is also expected to generate employment opportunities for local tribal communities. Increased tourism activity is likely to benefit tribal youth through opportunities in hospitality, transport, and allied services, while enabling the sale of agricultural and forest produce directly to tourists.
Officials said the initiative could contribute to broader socio-economic development in tribal areas through tourism expansion.