A seaplane has landed on the Ganga at Pashulok Barrage in Rishikesh. Notably, the seaplane trial took place around 6 pm on 6 April 2026. Private operator Sky Hop flew a 19-seater seaplane for the test. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (UJVNL) supported the trial with experts and state officials. Hence, it counts as a key step towards seaplane services in the state.
How the Trial Went
First, the seaplane took off from Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun. Then, it landed on the barrage reservoir. In fact, it landed and took off twice on the water. Moreover, the crew surveyed the full Pashulok reservoir and the Chilla canal. Throughout, experts monitored every step.
What Officials Said
Later, UJVNL Managing Director Ajay Kumar Singh welcomed the result. He said Uttarakhand will gain a new identity on the national and international tourism map. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also hailed the trial.
Benefits for Uttarakhand
Seaplanes can reach places where roads and airports are hard to build. Therefore, they can bring tourists to remote lakes and reservoirs quickly. They can also help during disasters for relief and rescue work. In addition, the service may create local jobs and boost high-end tourism. Rishikesh already draws visitors for rafting and bungee jumping. So, seaplanes can add one more attraction.
About Pashulok Barrage
Pashulok Barrage stands on the Ganga at Rishikesh, and UJVNL operates it. It diverts water into the Chilla power channel, which feeds the Chilla hydropower station. Generally, a seaplane needs about 300–500 metres of calm water to take off.
Seaplane Trial: Key Facts for Revision
- Date: 6 April 2026, around 6 pm
- Site: Pashulok Barrage reservoir, Rishikesh (Ganga)
- Aircraft: 19-seater seaplane, operated by Sky Hop
- Took off from: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- Support: UJVNL and the state administration
- Uses: High-end tourism and disaster relief
Why the Seaplane Trial Matters for UKPSC
Notably, UKPSC often asks about the state’s barrages, power projects and tourism plans. So, remember the barrage, the river and the agency involved. Also, link this trial with the Chilla hydropower project. For official updates, also visit UJVN Limited. Next, for a related story, read about the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.