Sun Nov 10 16:24:54 UTC 2024: ## Seaplane Lands in Kochi Backwaters, Sparking Debate on Tourism and Environment

**KOCHI, INDIA – November 10, 2024:** A 19-seat seaplane from De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited landed in the Kochi backwaters on Sunday, marking the beginning of a demonstration flight to Mattupetty Dam on Monday. The event has reignited a debate about the potential benefits and environmental consequences of seaplane tourism in Kerala.

Proponents of the project, like Yogesh Garg, Regional Vice President of De Havilland Aircraft, highlight the cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness of seaplanes. He stated that the seaplane requires minimal infrastructure, with a waterdrome costing less than ₹10 lakh. Additionally, the aircraft consumes only 260 kg of fuel per hour and boasts a design life of 66,000 hours.

However, traditional fishers and environmental groups, like the Kerala Matsyathozhilali Aikya Vedi and Kerala Sastra Sahithya Parishad, remain wary of the project. They fear that seaplane operations will disrupt their livelihoods and impact the delicate ecology of the backwaters. Charles George, president of the Kerala Matsyathozhilali Aikya Vedi, expressed concerns about the project’s potential to disrupt traditional fishing practices and the environment. He further emphasized the need for the government to prioritize traditional sectors like fisheries and coir for equitable development.

The political landscape has also been divided on the issue. Ernakulam District Congress Committee president Mohammed Shiyas criticized the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government for reviving a project that the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) had previously opposed. He accused the CPI(M) of misleading fishers and orchestrating protests against the project in 2013.

As the debate continues, the Kerala government remains focused on promoting tourism and economic growth through projects like the seaplane operation. However, the concerns of traditional fishers and environmentalists regarding the project’s potential impact on the environment and livelihoods cannot be ignored. The government will need to carefully weigh the potential benefits of seaplane tourism against the potential risks to ensure sustainable development in Kerala.

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