To enhance tourism and connectivity in the state, the Karnataka government plans to build nine water aerodromes.

During a workshop to formulate a Comprehensive Civil Aviation Policy for Karnataka, organised by the state government and the Ministry of Civil Aviation in Bangalore, Infrastructure Development Minister V Somanna discussed plans for improving regional connectivity in the state.

According to the Minister, Karnataka is looking at aviation-driven growth and believes that a robust aviation policy will benefit the state's economy and support industries, horticulture, education and technology.

A water aerodrome is an area of open water used regularly by sea planes, float planes or amphibious aircraft for landing and taking off.

“The water aerodromes will offer the public the speed of an aeroplane and the utility of a boat and increase tourism activities in various parts of the state,” V Somanna said.

In his address to the state-level workshop, the Minister said, "Potential locations for the development of water aerodromes have been identified at Kali river, Byndur, Malpe, Mangaluru, Tungabhadra, KRS, Linganamakki, Alamatti, and Hidkal reservoirs.”

The Minister also stated, "Currently, the development works of airports in the Shivamogga, Vijayapura, and Hassan districts are in progress. These are expected to be completed and become operational soon. Measures are being taken to acquire around 240 acres of land and hand it over to the Airports Authority of India for a runway extension and airport up-gradation of Mysuru Airport."

"Apart from this, airports have been developed in Kalaburagi and Bidar districts earlier and more routes are being explored for viability," Somanna added.

He said that the government is investigating the feasibility of establishing heliports in Madikeri, Chikmagalur, and Hampi and is working on a detailed project report.

As per the Times of India report, Usha Padhee, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Civil Aviation, said Karnataka was the first state to hold a consultative workshop to plan its own Civil Aviation Policy. The centre, she said, would support the state’s aviation projects.

According to Additional Chief Secretary (Infrastructure Development) Gaurav Gupta, public-private partnerships play a crucial role in the aviation sector. He cited the example of Kempegowda International Airport, which was developed through a public-private partnership and has a worldwide reputation.

"It is necessary to plan a dynamic and comprehensive policy for the all-round development of the state. The suggestions and inputs received at the workshop would help shape the state’s proposed aviation policy", he added.

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