Sky's the limit: DDA plans hot air balloon rides
New Delhi: Delhiites will soon be able to enjoy hot air balloon rides, with Delhi Development Authority confirming plans to introduce tethered balloon services at Yamuna Sports Complex and CWG Village Sports Complex.
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Two other sites along the Yamuna floodplain—Asita and Baansera—have also been selected for the initiative. The service will be operated by a designated firm, which will provide its own equipment and staff, under a revenue-sharing model with DDA.
"We have already earmarked sites at four locations. A notice inviting tender has been issued and the last date to apply is July 7. For the safety of visitors, we have made it mandatory that the agency will have a minimum of one year of experience in operating hot air balloon services or tethered hot air balloon services or similar aviation-based recreational activities," said an official.
Besides valid licences and certifications, a proven track record of safety and compliance with aviation standards and a licence under the air operator permit or non-scheduled operator permit as issued by the Union civil aviation ministry would be among other compliances DDA would demand from the operator.
After the award of the letter, the firm will be given 45 days to set up the required infrastructure and equipment and make the professionals available to commence the operations.
The tenure of the licence will be three years, which can be extended for three terms, up to a maximum of nine years, stated the authority.
"The price of the ride will be decided by the firm. However, it should be reasonable and will need to be approved by the competent authority of DDA. The sale of tickets will be arranged jointly by the firm and DDA to ensure transparency and record-keeping. The entire amount will be credited to DDA's account," stated the authority.
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The firm will be permitted to use the balloon as well as certain hoardings as decided by DDA to get sponsors and for advertisements. "However, no advertisement carrying information or graphics or other items relating to alcohol and tobacco products, objectionable or indecent content, as defined by industry standards, etc., would be allowed," stated the authority.
To attract more people to the Yamuna floodplain, DDA is making efforts to restore the greenery at these places, besides developing waterbodies, children's playing areas and recently initiating work on establishing eating facilities.
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