After seaplane trial, Kerala pushes airstrips plan for fast connectivity

₹1.50 cr announced for preparing DPR to set up airstrips in Idukki, Wayanad and Kasaragod

- KRISHNA KUMAR K E @Kochl

TAKING air connectivity to smaller towns has been a topic of discussion for long. By earmarking ₹20 crore for the development of heliports and airstrips, coupled with the seaplane project, the Kerala government has taken a major step towards realising the futuristic goal.

Finance Minister K N Balagopal, while presenting the state budget for 2025-26, announced a sum of Rs 1.50 crore for the preparation of a detailed project report (DPR) and other preliminary activities to set up airstrips in Idukki, Wayanad and Kasaragod. This is besides the Rs 50 crore additionally earmarked to install water aerodrome facilities for the seaplane project and landing facilities for small planes.

Experts view the initiative as the government's effort to provide air connectivity within the state to make up for the delay in the implementation of the express highway or high-speed rail corridor projects.