Nestled off the coast of Kerala, Lakshadweep is celebrated for its pristine beaches and awe-inspiring natural scenery. Comprising three coral reefs, 12 atolls, and a total of 36 islands and islets, only 10 of Lakshadweep's islands are inhabited. Prominent among them are Agatti, Kavaratti, Amini, Androth, and Kalpeni. The central government is actively steering efforts towards improving infrastructure in Lakshadweep, with the goal of elevating its status as a premier tourist destination. Explore further to uncover 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 tackle the issue of slow internet speed on the Lakshadweep Islands. The implementation of this project is anticipated to result in a substantial increase in internet speed, surpassing the current rate by over 100 times, elevating it from 1.7 Gbps to 200 Gbps on the islands. The introduction of a submarine optical fiber cable represents a significant advancement in communication infrastructure, promising enhancements in internet services, e-governance, telemedicine, education, currency usage, digital banking, and literacy across the islands.
Establishment of plant for conversion of sea water to potable water
A vital infrastructure project in Lakshadweep is the Low Temperature Thermal Desalination Plant, addressing the challenge of providing drinking water to the islands surrounded by the sea. To overcome this issue, the Ministry of Earth Sciences has introduced an indigenous technology capable of converting seawater into potable water. Developed by the National Institute of Ocean Sciences (NIOS), this technology has been implemented with the inauguration of a Low Temperature Thermal Desalination Plant at Kadmat by the prime minister. The plant is expected to produce over 1.5 lakh liters of drinking water daily. Buoyed by the success of this initiative, the union ministry plans to expand 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 central government has taken a notable stride in delivering tap water to two crucial islands in Lakshadweep. Through the Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) initiative, each household in Minicoy and Agatti islands will gain access to clean tap water. This strategic action is designed to ensure a reliable supply of drinking water to a significant population, thereby enhancing the living conditions of Lakshadweep's residents. The execution of the FHTC initiative underscores the commitment to improving fundamental amenities crucial for the well-being of the island's inhabitants.
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 allure tourists from across the globe, the Tata Group has revealed plans for establishing two resorts under the Taj brand. Positioned on Kadmat and Suheli islands, these high-end resorts are anticipated to open by 2026. The Taj Group, operating through its hospitality arm, the Indian Hotels Company, aims to create top-notch accommodations catering to both national and international tourists. These resorts, designed to promote eco-tourism on the island, will play a pivotal role in showcasing the natural beauty of Lakshadweep. The Suheli island resort is expected to feature 110 rooms, including 50 water villas and 60 beach villas. Meanwhile, the Taj resort on Kadmat will consist of 35 water villas and 75 beach villas, contributing to a luxurious and sustainable tourism experience.
Agatti Airport Expansion
Located at the southern end of Agatti island, the Agatti Airport serves as the main airport for the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. It is the only airstrip catering to the archipelago, although the Bangaram airstrip is also present. During his recent visit to the island, Prime Minister Narendra Modi committed to modernizing Agatti Airport. The development may include upgrading the current airport or investigating the viability of constructing a new one. Presently, Alliance Air is the exclusive operator to Agatti Airport, offering flights from Kochi.
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Ans 1. The focus of these infrastructure projects is to enhance facilities and promote Lakshadweep as a premier tourist destination.
Ans 2. With this project, Lakshadweep saw a significant improvement in internet speed, increasing from 1.7 Gbps to 200 Gbps.
Ans 3. This plant converts seawater to potable water, addressing drinking water issues in Lakshadweep.
Ans 4. The solar power plant in Lakshadweep reduces dependence on diesel, saving Rs 250 Crore annually and lowering carbon emissions.
Ans 5. The FHTC initiative provides clean tap water, ensuring a consistent supply for households in Lakshadweep.