Bhubaneswar: Aiming to create ample opportunity to promote Odisha Tourism, the state government is mulling to explore possibility of launching a luxury train after seaplane proposal to connect key tourist destinations.

A proposal in this regard was given to Odisha government by the Railways department at a high level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Aditya Prasad Padhi at State Secretariat here on Thursday for introduction of 'luxury train' in line with 'Palace on Wheels' and Maharaja Express' launched by the Indian Railways.

The cruise train service is proposed to be launched in joint collaboration of Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) and Indian Railways.

As per the discussion at the meeting, the tourism department will prepare a feasibility report covering all aspects including infrastructure facilities, economy, administration, business and management for launching the luxury train service connecting different tourist destinations.

The discussion between the government and Indian Railways is in progress for launching the luxury train service, which is available in several states, for high-class tourists. The government has accepted the proposal. Further step will be taken after reviewing the proposal. The government will take decision on which route the train will be introduced, Padhi informed the media.

Currently, a number of luxury trains are operational in various tourist destinations across the country in the states like Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh and Assam. Attracting the foreign tourists in large number, the luxury trains have improved the tourism potential in these states.

Each luxury train has 20-22 coaches with at least nine salons. Each coach features the passenger capacity of 88.

Recently, a team led by Airports Authority of India (AAI)'s General Manager (Architect) Sangeeta Mahay conducted a feasibility study for a water aerodrome in Chilika on June 14 and 15.

Meanwhile, the low-cost carrier SpiceJet is also keen to start seaplanes in Odisha connecting Bhubaneswar with key tourist destinations like Chilika lake, Chandipur sea beach and Hirakud dam.

Odisha tourism will get a new identity after operational of these plans in future.