Gaurav Gogoi, the Member of Parliament from Assam, has strongly criticized the launch of the Assam-Meghalaya seaplane services, calling it an impractical use of public funds. Speaking on the matter, Gogoi raised concerns over the state’s infrastructure gaps and questioned the need for such a service when the region’s existing air and rail networks remain underdeveloped. His remarks came after the Assam and Meghalaya governments unveiled the seaplane service as part of their efforts to enhance connectivity between the two states, especially in areas that are not well-served by traditional modes of transport.
Gogoi emphasized that the seaplane service, though promising on paper, is an extravagant venture in a state where basic infrastructure needs attention. He pointed out that air connectivity to several crucial towns in Assam and Meghalaya remains limited, with inadequate flight services and poor airport facilities. The lack of consistent and reliable rail services further exacerbates the travel difficulties faced by citizens, leaving many residents without access to efficient transportation options.
While seaplane services may seem innovative, Gogoi highlighted that such projects often divert resources from more pressing needs. He questioned whether the funds used for launching and maintaining the seaplane service could have been better spent on improving existing transportation infrastructure, which could benefit a larger population. According to Gogoi, the money invested in the seaplane service could have been directed towards enhancing road networks, upgrading railway stations, or improving connectivity to underserved areas that lack basic facilities.
The Assam-Meghalaya seaplane service, launched with much fanfare, was intended to connect scenic spots and boost tourism. However, Gogoi’s criticism stems from the fact that it fails to address the primary concerns of citizens, who struggle daily with travel connectivity issues in these states. In towns like Guwahati, Shillong, and Tura, where air and rail networks are limited, people are forced to rely on overcrowded buses and poorly maintained roads. This situation, Gogoi believes, creates unnecessary hardships for the local population, especially in the face of rapid urbanization and increasing economic demands.
The MP argued that while tourism is an important sector, it should not be prioritized over the basic needs of residents who rely on accessible and affordable transport options for work, education, and healthcare. He also pointed out that the seaplane service is unlikely to become a practical mode of transport for daily commuters due to its high cost and limited reach. In a region where economic disparity remains a significant issue, such projects may only serve a small segment of the population, leaving the majority without adequate solutions to their transportation woes.
Gogoi’s concerns are shared by many who feel that the government’s focus on high-end, niche projects is overshadowing the need for comprehensive infrastructure development that benefits the broader population. He stressed the importance of prioritizing sustainable development that addresses the real needs of citizens, particularly in terms of improving road, rail, and air connectivity across the northeastern region. The lack of consistent services, outdated infrastructure, and inadequate planning have long been issues for Assam and Meghalaya, and Gogoi believes that the government should first tackle these problems before embarking on costly projects like the seaplane service.
In his statement, Gogoi also criticized the lack of transparency in how the funds for such projects are allocated and whether their long-term viability has been adequately assessed. He called for a more transparent evaluation of public spending, especially when it comes to high-cost initiatives that might not provide significant returns for the majority of the population.
The Assam-Meghalaya seaplane service, which is part of the broader regional connectivity program, continues to draw mixed reactions. While some view it as a potential boon for tourism and economic growth, others, like Gogoi, argue that it represents an inefficient use of public resources. The debate over the seaplane service highlights the need for a balanced approach to development, where investments in infrastructure are made with careful consideration of the local population’s needs and the long-term impact on the region’s economy.
Ultimately, Gogoi’s criticism reflects a broader conversation about how governments prioritize public spending and whether projects that benefit only a select few should take precedence over initiatives that have the potential to uplift entire communities. As the debate over the seaplane service continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will shift its focus back to addressing the fundamental infrastructure challenges that have long plagued Assam and Meghalaya.
