To deepen the intra-state connectivity, Maharashtra Airport Development Company Limited (MADC) has taken up a study for feasibility of having water aerodrome at eight sites. As the term suggests, the State-run agency is keen to explore possibility of leveraging water dams for air connectivity. In Vidarbha, the dams of Koradi (Buldhana), Khindsi and Pench Dam (Nagpur Region) are identified in first phase for exploring the erection of infrastructure for water taxis or seaplanes, one that takes off and lands on water front.

 

Three other sites in Maharashtra are identified for the study and they are Dhom/Wai Dam (Satara), Gangapur Dam (Nashik), Mirye Beach/Ganpatipule (Ratnagiri) and Pawan Dam (Pune). MADC notes state that since the country is bestowed with vast waterfront plus extensive coastline, time has come to explore them for furthering tourism potential. Water Aerodromes project is being conceived under regional connectivity scheme (RCS). As the term suggest, Water aerodrome basically is being thought off to boost tourism in the scenic locations of the State. As can be seen from the sites shortlisted by MADC for proposed water aerodromes, each one is nestled near tourism location. For example the Koradi Dam is picked up for its proximity to Shegaon, where thousands visits to pay respects to Sant Gajanan Maharaj. Similarly, the Khindsi in Ramtek tehsil and Pench Dam are well known for closer to tiger reserve. These days, there is lot of attraction for tiger reserves among Indians.

 

Another reason for choosing these sites is that MADC feels they would be more easily accessible through seaplanes than roadway. About the proposed aerodrome in Gapatipule, the area in Konkan is well known tourism spot. In case water aerodrome idea bore fruits, same would provide convenience for tourists to explore Konkan area in more amicable way. Currently, there is lot of rush through roadway and same is putting pressure on eco sensitive infra in the region. MADC said prior to picking up the possible spots for water aerodromes, it has shared the idea with Airport Authority of India (AAI) and Ministry of Civil Aviation. The advance information would also help the regulatory body to map the possible route for movement of sea planes and on their end they also explore their own requirement and contribution for making the idea fruitful, said the officials.

 

The water aerodromes would have full facility, buildings, arrival and departure areas, space for movement of seaplanes plus other associated infrastructure. Political leaders in Vidarbha in past have talked about seaplanes in Koradi and Ambazari. However the idea is yet to take off since a study is needed to explore the potential. The pre-feasibility study on part of MADC is to understand the scope for such water aerodromes. The survey will provide an insight into investment that would be needed and also possible tourist flow. So once the authorities have some concrete data about expected returns then a political decision can be expedited in case of favorable circumstances.