Union Minister Nitin Gadkari today suggested promoting seaplane transportation in Chandrapur district, located in eastern Maharashtra, to enhance connectivity to the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR).
He stated that while TATR is a major tourist destination, constructing an airport nearby is not feasible due to environmental concerns.
He made these remarks during a rally in the Ballarpur assembly constituency in support of State Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar, ahead of the November 20 state elections. In his address, Gadkari emphasised the development projects launched by Mungantiwar in the district.
He further suggested that to enhance connectivity, Mungantiwar should work towards establishing a “waterport” at the Irai Dam in Chandrapur and enable transportation using 22-seater seaplanes.
He also mentioned that if water and air transportation facilities are developed in the district, tourists from Pune and Mumbai could directly reach TATR.
What are seaplanes?
Seaplanes are aircraft specifically designed to take off from and land on water. They are built differently from traditional airplanes, with a more rugged and durable construction to endure the impact of water landings and takeoffs. Additionally, they have a streamlined design that reduces water resistance during these maneuvers.
Seaplanes are generally smaller in size compared to traditional airplanes.
(With PTI inputs)