Mon Nov 11 14:44:56 UTC 2024: ## Idukki Welcomes First Seaplane Service, Boosting Tourism Prospects
**Munnar, Kerala -** Idukki district witnessed a historic moment on Monday as Kerala’s first seaplane service took flight, promising to revolutionize tourism in the region. The plane, taking off from Kochi, landed at the Mattupetty dam reservoir after a 30-minute journey.
The arrival of the seaplane was met with enthusiasm by officials, including Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine, who led a welcoming team at Mattupetty. The aircraft remained at the reservoir for over half an hour before returning to Kochi.
Jitheesh Jose, Secretary of the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), lauded the seaplane service as a game-changer for Idukki, particularly Munnar. “The lack of efficient transport options, including rail and air connectivity, has been a major hurdle in attracting premium tourists to Munnar,” he said. “The seaplane will attract visitors from around the world, opening up new opportunities for the tourism sector.”
The Mattupetty dam reservoir, with its 3.5-kilometer length and ample water storage, provides an ideal location for seaplane landing. A large crowd of tourists and tourism stakeholders witnessed the historic landing.
In light of the event, Idukki Collector V. Vigneshwari issued an order prohibiting drone activity at the dam and surrounding areas.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) Chairperson Biju Prabhakar, former Electricity Minister and Udumbanchola MLA M.M. Mani, KSEB dam safety Chief Engineer S. Nandakumar, Devikulam Subcollector V.M. Jayakrishnan, and Devikulam MLA A. Raja.
First Piper 