Mysuru: An increase in GST, aviation turbine fuel and the Dollar exchange rate might result in a hike in the fare of the Helicopter ride which is scheduled to be held at the Lalitha Mahal Palace helipad from September 27 to October 10.
‘Dasara Heli Rides’ has been organised on the aforementioned dates to provide the people with an opportunity to get an aerial glimpse of Mysuru’s prominent places including Lalitha Mahal Palace, Chamundi Hill, Mysuru Palace, Kukkarahalli lake, Karanji Lake, Chamundi Vihar Stadium, KRS backwaters etc. Each ride will last for a little more than 10 minutes. Last year, the heli-ride fare was Rs 2,399.
This year, three firms have come forward to conduct the rides. In a couple of days, the authorities will finalise which one of the three firms will conduct the rides.
During the meeting, the companies’ representatives informed the authorities that the fare will remain the same as last year, due to the implementation of 28% per cent GST, a hike in aviation turbine fuel and the Dollar exchange rate.
While the companies want to increase the fare to cover the costs, the authorities are trying their best to convince the operators to retain last year’s rates.
It can be recalled that more than 1,500 people made use of the opportunity to get an aerial glimpse of the city during the festival. The heli-rides were introduced to make the celebrations more attractive and promote tourism.
