Saturday, June 7, 2025

Tripura launches seaplane service at Dumboor Lake, boosting tourism links and promoting eco-friendly travel across India’s scenic Northeast.

Tripura is preparing to make aviation history in Northeast India by introducing the region’s first-ever seaplane service. This landmark initiative will connect the serene Dumboor Lake, home to the state-operated Narikel Kunja eco-resort, with India’s broader aviation network. Once approved by the central government, this project is expected to significantly enhance sustainable tourism and offer improved last-mile connectivity to one of Tripura’s most picturesque and remote regions.

Situated in the Dhalai district, Dumboor Lake spans an impressive 41 square kilometers and is famed for its unspoiled natural beauty, lush green forests, and tranquil waters. The Narikel Kunja resort, perched on a secluded island within the lake, has emerged as a popular retreat for eco-conscious travelers, wellness enthusiasts, and adventure tourists. The state government aims to capitalize on this growing interest by introducing water-based aircraft that can seamlessly ferry tourists and locals alike between Dumboor and regional air hubs.

Tripura’s tourism department, in collaboration with the Union Ministries of Civil Aviation and Tourism, has initiated formal discussions to evaluate the technical and financial feasibility of the project. Key components under review include choosing the right type of seaplane, constructing floating jetties, and establishing water aerodrome terminals. All of this will be carried out with a firm commitment to preserving the lake’s ecological integrity, ensuring the project adheres to sustainable development principles.

A crucial aspect of the proposal is its integration with national programs like the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme and the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan. These schemes aim to enhance air connectivity in underdeveloped and remote regions of the country. Tripura’s Dhalai district, characterized by its tribal communities and economic challenges, stands to gain immensely from increased tourist inflow. Enhanced accessibility is likely to spur local employment opportunities in homestays, handicrafts, transportation, and hospitality, thereby encouraging inclusive growth.

The blueprint for Tripura’s seaplane service draws inspiration from Gujarat’s successful Sabarmati–Statue of Unity route. Similar to that model, the aircraft proposed for Dumboor Lake are short take-off and landing (STOL) models, such as the versatile Twin Otter. These aircraft are specifically designed for regional and amphibious operations and can easily operate on inland water bodies. By bypassing the limitations of traditional infrastructure, the seaplane will complement existing roads and airstrips, particularly in difficult terrains where conventional access remains a challenge.

However, the proposal has also triggered concerns among environmental groups. Dumboor Lake is home to rich biodiversity and serves as a sensitive ecological zone. Environmentalists have called for rigorous assessments before any construction or aircraft operations begin. Acknowledging these concerns, the Tripura government has already roped in the State Pollution Control Board and the Forest Department to conduct environmental and ecological impact assessments. These studies aim to ensure that the project causes minimal disruption to the lake’s flora and fauna.

If given the green light, this project could turn Tripura into a pioneering example of how modern infrastructure can be harmonized with ecological conservation. The low-emission profile of seaplanes and their minimal requirement for land-based infrastructure make them a sustainable alternative to traditional travel modes, especially in ecologically sensitive and geographically constrained areas.

The state government is optimistic that the central clearance for the project will come through in the near future. If approved, foundational work is expected to begin in early 2026, marking a bold new chapter in Tripura’s transportation and tourism sectors. By blending innovation, sustainability, and community upliftment, the project holds the promise of redefining mobility across Northeast India.

This seaplane initiative is not just a transportation upgrade—it is a vision for the future. It aims to place Tripura prominently on India’s tourism map, unlocking the state’s vast untapped potential. As travelers seek more sustainable and immersive experiences, Tripura’s leap into water aviation could become a model for similar eco-tourism ventures across the country.