Lakshadweep, India’s picturesque archipelago, is set to undergo a significant transformation with the government’s announcement of a Rs 3600 crore infrastructure upgrade.
This ambitious plan focuses on enhancing port facilities, upgrading jetties, and developing beachfront amenities across several islands, aiming to bolster connectivity and promote sustainable tourism. The development plan includes the construction of new jetties and upgrading existing ones on islands such as Kadmat, Kalpeni, Androth, Kavaratti, Agatti, and Minicoy. These projects are designed to accommodate larger vessels, including cruise ships, thereby improving passenger and cargo handling capabilities. The proposed 360-meter-long multipurpose jetty at Kadmat Island, for instance, will cater to both passenger and cruise vessels, featuring modern passenger waiting halls and separate transit areas for arrivals and departures.
In addition to port infrastructure, the plan also focuses on developing beachfront facilities and peripheral roads on islands like Kadmat, Agatti, and Kavaratti. These developments aim to enhance the tourism experience by providing better access to beaches and improving overall island connectivity. The construction of beach protection walls is also part of the initiative to safeguard the islands’ coastal areas from erosion and other environmental challenges. To further enhance connectivity, a dedicated jetty is being constructed at Mangaluru Old Port in Karnataka. This facility will handle cargo and passenger traffic bound for Lakshadweep, facilitating smoother transportation between the mainland and the islands. The project is currently awaiting environmental clearance and approval from the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) authorities.
In a bid to improve air connectivity, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has sanctioned the development of water aerodromes at Cochin Port and select islands in Lakshadweep, including Minicoy, Agatti, and Kavaratti. This initiative, under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, aims to introduce seaplane services between Kochi and Lakshadweep by the end of this year. SpiceJet has been approved to operate seaplanes on routes connecting Kochi with these islands, providing a faster and more convenient mode of transport for tourists and residents alike. The overarching goal of these development projects is to transform Lakshadweep into a sustainable tourism hub. By improving infrastructure and connectivity, the government aims to attract more tourists, thereby generating employment opportunities for the local population.
The focus on sustainable development ensures that the unique ecological balance of the islands is maintained while promoting economic growth. Lakshadweep’s comprehensive port development plan marks a significant step towards enhancing the archipelago’s connectivity and tourism potential. With a focus on sustainable infrastructure and community development, these initiatives are poised to transform Lakshadweep into a model of eco-friendly and inclusive growth.
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