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Key Points

The Delhi Development Authority is set to introduce hot air balloon rides at four scenic locations along the Yamuna River. The project, supervised by Lt Governor V.K. Saxena, aims to promote eco-tourism while enhancing recreational activities. Each site will offer four hours of daily flight time, with operations expected to begin within two months. The initiative is part of DDA’s broader efforts to rejuvenate the Yamuna and transform previously neglected areas into green spaces.

Key Points: DDA to Launch Hot Air Balloon Rides Along Yamuna River Soon

  • DDA shortlists agency for hot air balloon rides at four Yamuna sites
  • Each site to have 3,600 sqm space with flights lasting four hours daily
  • Project aims to boost eco-tourism under Lt Governor Saxena’s guidance
  • Revenue-sharing model ensures transparency with ticket proceeds going to DDA
2 min read

DDA plans hot air balloon activities at four sites near Yamuna

Delhi residents can soon enjoy hot air balloon rides at four scenic Yamuna sites as DDA promotes eco-tourism under Lt Governor Saxena’s vision.

"“To ensure transparency and proper record keeping, all proceeds from ticketing will be credited to DDA’s account.” – Official Statement"

New Delhi, July 31

In a first, Delhi residents will soon get a chance to enjoy the city's natural beauty while riding a hot air balloon as the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has shortlisted an agency for this project to promote eco-tourism, an official said on Thursday.

A concept visualised under the guidance and supervision of Lt Governor V.K. Saxena will promote recreational activities at Yamuna Sports Complex, Commonwealth Games Sports Complex and along the Yamuna bank at Asita and Baansera.

An official statement said that the private agency will be provided 3,600 sqm (60X60 m) space at each site for operation of the hot air balloons and its operations would commence within two months.

The selected agency has been awarded the task for three years, extendable up to maximum period of nine years.

Each day, four hour of flying time will be allowed. However, the DDA may extend it as per requirements, said the statement.

The private firm would operate the Balloon rides on a revenue sharing model and the pricing will be decided with approval of DDA.

“To ensure transparency and proper record keeping, all proceeds from ticketing will be credited to DDA’s account,” it said.

The DDA has extensively worked on the Rejuvenation of River Yamuna and many projects are being developed on its bank including Asita, which was once an encroached land and now converted into green beautiful landscape.

Under L-G Saxena’s guidance, the DDA has developed Baansera Bamboo Park at Sarai Kale Khan, which was once a construction and demolition waste dumping site. It has now transformed into a bamboo-themed park with over 30,000 bamboos, three water bodies and a musical fountain.

Yamuna Sports Complex, located at Surajmal Vihar, is the biggest sports complex developed by the DDA and Commonwealth Games Sports Complex was developed in 2010 for the international sporting event.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
Great initiative but I hope they've considered safety measures properly. Hot air balloons need strict regulations, especially near water bodies. Also hope they'll maintain cleanliness at these sites.
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Arjun K
What about Yamuna pollution? Before making tourist attractions, shouldn't we focus on cleaning the river first? The view from balloon won't be pleasant if the river stinks and has foam.
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Nikhil C
Good to see DDA transforming wastelands into beautiful spaces. The bamboo park at Sarai Kale Khan is amazing! Hope they maintain these projects properly unlike other public spaces that deteriorate quickly.
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Priya S
Excited for this! 😍 Perfect for weekend outings with family. Hope they include some food stalls and seating areas too. Would love to see more such innovative projects in Delhi.
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Karan T
While the idea is good, I'm concerned about the environmental impact. Hot air balloons use propane gas - is this really "eco-tourism"? Shouldn't we focus on more sustainable activities?
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David E
As someone who's experienced hot air ballooning abroad, this is a fantastic addition to Delhi's tourism scene. The views during sunrise/sunset should be spectacular if executed well.

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