Lakshadweep, situated off the coast of Kerala, is renowned for its unspoiled beaches and breathtaking natural beauty. Comprising three coral reefs, 12 atolls, and 36 islands and islets, only 10 of Lakshadweep’s islands are inhabited. Notable among them are Agatti, Kavaratti, Amini, Androth, and Kalpeni. The union government is actively directing efforts towards enhancing infrastructure in Lakshadweep, aiming to bolster its status as a premier tourist destination. Read on to discover details about the ongoing development of eight key infrastructure projects in the Lakshadweep Islands.
List of Lakshadweep Islands infrastructure projects
In January 2024, during his recent visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated a range of infrastructure projects in Lakshadweep, with a combined cost of Rs 1,150 Crore. These projects are pivotal for the development and enhancement of the region. Here are the key infrastructure projects in Lakshadweep.
Better internet connectivity in Lakshadweep through optical fiber
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection (KLI-SOFC) project. This groundbreaking initiative aims to address the challenge of slow internet speed on Lakshadweep Islands. The implementation of this project is expected to result in a remarkable increase in internet speed, surpassing 100 times the current rate, elevating it from 1.7 Gbps to 200 Gbps on the islands. The introduction of a submarine optical fiber cable establishes a significant advancement in communication infrastructure, promising improvements in internet services, e-governance, telemedicine, education, currency usage, digital banking, and literacy in the islands.
Establishment of plant for conversion of sea water to potable water
A crucial infrastructure undertaking in Lakshadweep is the Low Temperature Thermal Desalination Plant. Given that Lakshadweep comprises islands surrounded by the sea, the supply of drinking water has been a prominent challenge. In response, the Ministry of Earth Sciences has introduced an indigenous technology designed to convert seawater into potable water. Developed by the National Institute of Ocean Sciences (NIOS), this technology has seen its first implementation with the inauguration of a Low Temperature Thermal Desalination Plant at Kadmat by the prime minister. This plant is anticipated to generate over 1.5 Lakh liters of drinking water daily. Encouraged by the success of this initiative, the union ministry is extending the establishment of LTTD plants to Androth, Amini, Kadmat, Kalpeni, and Kiltan islands.
Regular electricity supply through solar power plants at Kavaratti
The union government has taken strides to ensure a consistent supply of electricity through the implementation of solar power plants. In a notable move, the prime minister inaugurated the first-ever battery-backed solar power plant in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep. This solar power initiative represents the region’s first on-grid solar project and is equipped with a cutting-edge battery energy storage system, marking a significant advancement in sustainable power generation. The introduction of this project aims to lower Lakshadweep’s reliance on diesel-based power generation plants, particularly on Kavaratti Island, with the Lakshadweep Energy Development Agency harnessing power from these renewable resources. The anticipated impact of the project is substantial, with estimated annual savings of approximately Rs 250 Crore. Furthermore, it is expected to curtail carbon emission by 58,000 tons and save over 190 Lakh liter of diesel every year.
Provision of clean tap water in Minicoy and Agatti
The union government has taken a significant step to provide tap water to two vital islands in Lakshadweep. Through the Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) initiative, every household in Minicoy and Agatti islands will have access to clean tap water. This strategic move is aimed at establishing a consistent supply of drinking water to a substantial population, contributing to improving living conditions of the residents of Lakshadweep. The implementation of the FHTC initiative underscores the commitment to enhancing the basic amenities essential for the well-being of the island’s inhabitants.
See also: Amazing things to do and places to visit in Lakshadweep
Healthcare amenities in Kalpeni
To enhance healthcare facilities on the island, the union government is undertaking the renovation of primary healthcare centers in Kalpeni. Furthermore, there is a broader initiative to enhance the healthcare infrastructure across the entire territory. To ensure the availability of healthcare services at the grassroots level, the union government is setting up five Anganwadi Kendras (Nand Ghar) in Androth, Minicoy, Chetlat, Agatti, and Kadmat, contributing to improved accessibility and healthcare provisions for the residents of Lakshadweep.
Ice plant for fisheries at Agatti
The economy of Lakshadweep heavily relies on fisheries exports, but fishermen faced challenges in storing fish. Addressing this issue, the union government has actively engaged in establishing storage infrastructure, with the establishment of an ice plant a significant step in this direction. The ice plant is poised to introduce new possibilities for fish processing in the Lakshadweep islands. By resolving fish storage challenges, this initiative is expected to contribute to employment generation and overall development in the region.
Establishment of new resort by Taj Group
To attract tourists from around the globe, the Tata Group has unveiled plans for the establishment of two resorts. Branded under the Taj, these upscale resorts will be situated on Kadmat and Suheli islands, with an expected opening by the year 2026. The Taj Group, through its hospitality arm Indian Hotels Company, aims to create world-class accommodations catering to both national and international tourists. These resorts, designed to promote eco-tourism on the island, will be instrumental in showcasing the natural beauty of Lakshadweep. The Suheli island resort is projected to feature 110 rooms, including 50 water villas and 60 beach villas. Meanwhile, the Taj resort on Kadmat will comprise 35 water villas and 75 beach villas, contributing to a luxurious and sustainable tourism experience.
Agatti Airport Expansion
The Agatti Airport, situated on the southern end of Agatti island, serves as the primary airport for the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. It stands as the sole airstrip catering to the archipelago, although Bangaram airstrip is also present. During his recent visit to the island, Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged to transform Agatti Airport into a modern one. The development may involve upgrading the existing airport or exploring the feasibility of constructing a new one. Currently, Alliance Air is the sole operator to Agatti Airport, providing flights from Kochi.
FAQs
What is the focus of infrastructure development in Lakshadweep?
The focus of these infrastructure projects is to enhance facilities and promote Lakshadweep as a premier tourist destination.
What is the Impact of KLI-SOFC project on internet connectivity in Lakshadweep?
With this project, Lakshadweep saw a significant improvement in internet speed, increasing from 1.7 Gbps to 200 Gbps.
What is the significance of the LTTD plant in Lakshadweep?
This plant converts seawater to potable water, addressing drinking water issues in Lakshadweep.
What is the role of the solar power plant at Kavaratti?
The solar power plant in Lakshadweep reduces dependence on diesel, saving Rs 250 Crore annually and lowering carbon emissions.
What is the objective of the FHTC Initiative?
The FHTC initiative provides clean tap water, ensuring a consistent supply for households in Lakshadweep.
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