Uttarakhand has marked a major milestone in regional connectivity and tourism with the successful trial landing of a 19-seater seaplane on Tehri Lake. The trial, conducted by Sky Hop Private Limited, signifies the beginning of seaplane-based regional connectivity operations in the state after years of technical delays.
The aircraft took off from Jolly Grant Airport and landed at Koti Colony in the Tehri Lake region, successfully completing two landing and take-off sorties. This development is expected to boost regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and enhance adventure tourism in Uttarakhand.
About Tehri Lake
Tehri Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in Asia, created by the construction of the Tehri Dam on the Bhagirathi River. Over time, it has evolved from a hydroelectric reservoir into a major hub for eco-tourism and water-based adventure activities in northern India.
Location & Formation
- Located in Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand
- Situated at an altitude of ~1,700 metres in the Himalayan foothills
- Formed after submergence of Old Tehri town, with resettlement in New Tehri
- Fed by Bhagirathi and Bhilangna rivers
Key Geographical Features
- Surface area: ~42 sq. km
- Large catchment area collecting glacial melt and monsoon runoff
- Deep-water reservoir ensuring year-round water availability
- Surrounded by steep mountain terrain, ideal for tourism and aviation experiments
Significance of Tehri Lake
- Hydropower Generation: Tehri Dam has a capacity of 2,400 MW, supplying electricity across North India
- Water Resource Role:
- Irrigates around 2.7 lakh hectares of land
- Provides drinking water to Delhi and Uttar Pradesh
- Tourism Hub:
- Centre for water sports, paragliding, jet skiing, and eco-tourism
- Now emerging as a seaplane tourism destination
Importance of Seaplane Operations
- Enhances last-mile connectivity in difficult Himalayan terrain
- Reduces travel time between major cities like Dehradun and remote regions
- Promotes high-value tourism and adventure travel
- Supports the government’s push for regional air connectivity (UDAN scheme alignment)
- Opens new opportunities for economic development and local employment