Seaplane, floating hotel projects are security threats: Fishermen Association

Two of the state tourism department's projects – a floating hotel and the seaplane services – are a security threat to the city, the fishermen association has alleged. Fisherfolks have also claimed that the projects are being run by politicians under the disguise of shell companies, and has demanded a CBI inquiry into them.

Seaplanes, which have started plying a few routes within the state, are yet to make their debut in the city as they are awaiting a few permissions. Similarly, the floating hotel, which was inaugurated by then state tourism minister, has still not been opened to the public. The association members also said that the floating hotel project will create a lot of garbage and affect their livelihood.

"These projects are a potential security threat as they can be used by terrorists to launch a 26/11-style attack on the city," said Damodar Tandel, president, Akhil Maharashtra Machhimar Kriti Samiti, an association working for the welfare of the fishing community.

The seaplane which is proposed to fly between Juhu airport and Girgaum Chowpatty, is expected to help office-goers and tourists as it can cover the distance within 7 minutes.

However, tourism department officials said both the projects are being taken forward after taking all necessary permissions from stakeholders including police and defence. They brushed off the fishing community's apprehensions, saying they were baseless.