Hot-air balloon rides likely to come to Delhi soon

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Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is planning to launch hot-air balloon rides at the Yamuna and the Commonwealth Games Village sports complexes, NDTV reported.

According to officials, the two locations have been selected for the initial start of the project, and a tender has been issued, inviting private players to operate these rides at DDA sites.

"These sites will be offered for operation of hot air ballooning on a revenue-sharing basis. The required area, approximately 60 metres by 60 metres at each site, will be provided to the firm as per mutually agreed timings and days," the tender issued by the DDA was quoted by NDTV.

According to the report, with an eye on generating revenue and promoting tourism, the landowning agency has marked four sites at each of the two mega sports complexes managed by it. Currently, there are several other sporting areas within these complexes.

According to officials, the firms will be allowed to advertise on the balloons, and the licence issued will be for three years, which will be extendable up to a maximum of nine years.

"The space will be provided to the firm for undertaking a maximum of four hours of flying per day. However, temporary permission for additional hours may be granted by DDA on a case-by-case basis," the proposal added.

As per the report, the price of the hot-air balloon rides will be decided by the firm, however, DDA has directed that it be kept reasonable.