Delhiites are set to experience the thrill of hot-air balloon rides starting this Saturday, according to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). The DDA initiated a trial run of the service at Baansera on Tuesday, paving the way for public rides to commence on Saturday.

Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena shared his positive experience after testing the ride, stating his satisfaction with the safety measures in place. He emphasized the ongoing efforts to introduce new entertainment options for the people of Delhi, complementing the recent development of parks and recreational spaces.

The hot-air balloon rides will be available to the public from this Saturday, with tickets priced at ₹3,000 per person, excluding taxes. These tethered flights will provide a unique aerial perspective of Delhi. The DDA has stated that initially, the rides will operate for four hours daily, but these timings may be extended based on demand. Each ride will last approximately 7 to 12 minutes and can accommodate four people.

The DDA has partnered with a private agency to operate the hot air balloon rides at multiple locations. In addition to Baansera, the Yamuna Sports Complex, Commonwealth Games sports complexes, and Asita have been finalized as locations. Each site provides a 60-meter square launch area for the hot air balloons. The project has been assigned for three years, with the possibility of extending it for up to nine years.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the DDA to boost tourism and generate revenue in Delhi. The DDA is extensively working on the rejuvenation of the Yamuna River and aims to develop the Yamuna Front into a tourism and culture hub. In line with this vision, a ferry service is also being developed on a four- to six-kilometer stretch of the Yamuna River between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur.