Chennai: In a landmark move to boost maritime sports in Tamil Nadu, the Centre has granted environmental clearance for the establishment of a state-run Sailors Academy at Marina Beach. Spearheaded by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), the ₹7 crore project is set to become a game-changer for water-sports training in India.
The academy will be developed over 2.7 acres of coastal land near the mouth of the Cooum River, in accordance with Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ-II) norms. According to the SDAT, the facility will serve as a dedicated training centre for young athletes, particularly students from government sports hostels and state-run schools.
A Hub for Diverse Water Sports
The proposed academy will offer training in a wide range of activities including:
- Kayaking
- Rafting
- Tube boating
- Scuba diving
- Jet skiing
- Undersea walking
- Glass-bottom boating
The Yachting Association of India will collaborate with the state to provide technical support and training curriculum, ensuring that the facility meets national standards for water-sports development.
Eco-Conscious Design & Safety Measures
The single-storey training facility will cover a built-up area of approximately 729 square meters, comprising classrooms, restrooms, gear storage, and specialized training spaces. It will also feature a 52-metre floating platform and a 30-metre launch ramp for easy access to the water.
Strict environmental safeguards will be in place:
- A 20-metre buffer zone from the high-tide line
- Prohibition of groundwater extraction and plastic usage
- Implementation of solar energy systems, rainwater harvesting, solid waste management
- Presence of lifeguards, emergency communication systems, and first aid stations
A Long-Awaited Dream Realized
Originally proposed by former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in 2016, the Sailors Academy had remained on hold due to clearance and funding delays. With fresh momentum from the current state administration, the project is now back on course and poised for completion ahead of the Asian Youth Sailing Championships, scheduled for January 2026 in Chennai.
“This academy will democratize access to maritime sports and inspire the next generation of sailors,” said J. Meghanatha Reddy, SDAT Member Secretary. “We are aligning our vision with Olympic standards and youth development goals.”
Strategic Impact for Tamil Nadu and India
With Marina Beach being one of the world’s longest urban beaches, the academy is expected to:
- Elevate Chennai’s global profile as a maritime sports destination
- Serve as a talent pipeline for international sailing and aquatic competitions
- Complement existing infrastructure such as the Royal Madras Yacht Club and Muttukadu Boat House
What’s Next?
The tender process is expected to begin this month, with groundwork commencing later in 2025. The government aims to inaugurate the facility by end of the year, setting the stage for Tamil Nadu’s athletes to compete on the continental stage.
As India eyes a larger presence in global water-sports events, the Chennai Sailors Academy represents a bold and timely investment in talent, training, and coastal sport development.
and also i am as a kayaker excited to get the first kayak ride too in the arena, If the arena is constructed BiGG Sports news will have a tournament, lets manifest… in the image you see a kayak thats my favorute kayak names banana kayak you can ride it from my kayaking school SurfTurf where i learnt to kayak *THIS IS NOT AN PAID PROMOTION*
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