Kerala's Seaplane Debate: Navigating Fishermen's Concerns and Wildlife Impacts

The Congress-led UDF opposition in Kerala has criticized the CPI(M)-led LDF government for delaying a seaplane service due to environmental concerns. State Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas claims fishermen are now onboard with the project, focusing initial operations on dams and airports, not fishing sites.

The Congress-led UDF opposition has accused Kerala's CPI(M)-led LDF government of delaying a decade-old seaplane service due to environmental concerns. IUML's P K Kunhalikutty criticized the 2012-13 project opposition for endangering fish fingerlings, while Minister P A Mohamed Riyas defended the initiative, saying conditions have evolved, including more liberal aviation policies.

The seaplane service could now proceed with fishermen and trade unions' support, as initial operations target dams and airports instead of traditional fishing sites. Riyas emphasized that the project aims to be people-friendly, addressing affordability concerns and promising not to disrupt existing livelihoods.

Meanwhile, environmental concerns remain, particularly with Mattupetty Dam's inclusion in the plan. The Divisional Forest Officer has cautioned about potential human-wildlife conflicts due to the dam's proximity to national parks and elephant corridors, urging the development of a wildlife conflict mitigation plan.

(With inputs from agencies.)