A new helicopter tourism service has been launched in Madhya Pradesh for Bhopal-Chanderi-Orchha sector. Operated using a modern 6-seater helicopter, the fare has been fixed for different routes. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav inaugurated this new helicopter service on Sunday at State Hangar in the capital. Dr Mohan Yadav handed over boarding passes to first passengers flying from Bhopal and flagged off the helicopter. On the occasion, Renewable Energy Minister Rakesh Shukla, Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai and other officials were present. According to the department, fare from Chanderi to Orchha is Rs 2,750 per person, from Bhopal to Chanderi is Rs 5,500 per person and from Bhopal to Orchha is Rs 6,500 per person. A special package for Bhopal-Orchha route is available for Rs 14,500.

 

This package includes Rs 13,000 as helicopter fare, Rs 1,150 as taxi charges and Rs 350 as charges for Darshan and Prasad. To encourage tourism, the State Government is providing financial assistance for this service under a matching grant scheme. Expansion of helicopter tourism services in the State is already underway. Previously, services have been launched on ‘Omkareshwar-Mahakaleshwar-Indore’ sector and ‘Kanha-Bandhavgarh-Maihar-Amarkantak-Chitrakoot’ sector. Addition of Bhopal-Chanderi-Orchha sector is the next step in this series. Connecting religious and cultural sites via air is a priority for the Government, which will save time for tourists. Increased tourism activities in these regions will lead to expansion of economic activities and creation of new employment opportunities. The Government is working towards strengthening air services alongside rail, bus, road and water transport.