Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (SP)

Mangalore, Sep 12: Tourism minister Janardhan Reddy, speaking at a press conference in Bangalore on Thursday September 11, said that the state government will soon permit heli-tourism with private participation, in the coastal region and Hampi, for the benefit of tourists.

Reddy informed that Vijayanagar MLA Anand Singh has expressed interest in buying 20 helicopters for the purpose, at a cost of around Rs 250 crore. The government is scrutinizing his proposal and in all likelihood, it will be permitted, he explained.

10 helicopters will be used for coastal tour while the balance will be covering Hampi, Badami, Pattadakal etc. In addition to tourists, pilgrims will also benefit from this scheme, as many temples are located at these places, the minister said.

In a light vein, people may find travelling by helicopters a much more convenient way of visiting places in the coastal districts, considering the condition of roads and traffic chaos that nag the locals, tourists and pilgrims alike.