Delhi residents are soon to experience a thrilling new activity. The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has initiated a rapid process to launch hot air balloon rides in the national capital.
New Delhi: Good news for Delhiites! Soon, residents of the national capital will be able to enjoy the thrill of a sky-high adventure. The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is set to introduce hot air balloon rides. Four prominent locations have been identified, and the process of implementing this plan is underway. This initiative will not only attract tourists but also provide Delhi residents with a new source of excitement and entertainment.
Four Locations Selected for Hot Air Balloon Rides
The four locations selected by the DDA for the hot air balloon service are:
- Yamuna Sports Complex
- Commonwealth Games Village (CWG) Sports Complex
- Asita Yamuna Floodplains
- Bansera Yamuna Floodplains
These four locations are not only open and safe but also environmentally suitable. Areas along the Yamuna river, particularly Asita and Bansera, will offer a unique experience of flying amidst natural beauty.
Tethered Balloons: Safe and Thrilling
The service initiated by the DDA will be a tethered hot air balloon ride. This means the balloon will be attached to the ground by a rope and will only ascend to a predetermined height. This ensures passenger safety while providing a thrilling experience. This type of ride is suitable even for first-time hot air balloon enthusiasts.
The DDA has decided to entrust a private firm with the operation of the service. Tenders have been invited, with a deadline of July 7th. The selected agency will initially be granted a three-year license, extendable for three further three-year periods, allowing for a maximum of nine years of service operation.
The DDA has mandated that the participating agency must have at least one year of experience in hot air balloon or similar aviation-based recreational services.
Ticket Pricing
Currently, the ticket price for the hot air balloon ride has not been finalized. However, the DDA has clarified that the ticket price will be determined by the agency, subject to the approval of the competent authority of the DDA. This system will ensure that no company charges exorbitant fares from passengers.
Furthermore, ticket sales will be monitored by both the DDA and the firm. The entire ticket revenue will be deposited directly into the DDA's account, ensuring transparency.
Boosting Tourism and Employment
This pioneering initiative in Delhi will not only offer a novel experience for tourists but also generate local employment opportunities. Jobs are expected to be created in areas such as ride operation, ticketing, security, guiding, and other support activities. According to DDA officials, the service will commence very soon.
However, the exact date is yet to be determined. Once the tender process is complete and operational responsibility is assigned to a firm, the service could begin within a few weeks.
