New Delhi, Nov 25 (NationPress) Delhi's Lt. Governor V. K. Saxena was present on Tuesday as officials from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) conducted a successful trial of the city's inaugural hot air balloon ride at Baansera, situated along the banks of the Yamuna River.

This venture, spearheaded by the DDA, aims to add a novel aspect to Delhi’s skyline while enhancing the city’s eco-tourism and adventure sports offerings, according to an official statement.

Under the direct oversight of the L-G, who actively supports the DDA in developing new recreational areas and revitalizing the Yamuna floodplains, this project emphasizes the DDA’s dedication to promoting sustainable tourism and enriching public leisure activities.

The DDA plans to offer tethered hot air balloon rides at four sites: Baansera, Asita, Yamuna Sports Complex, and the Commonwealth Games Village Sports Complex.

“Following the successful trial at Baansera, public operations are anticipated to commence soon. Once operational, these rides will provide both residents and visitors with a distinctive aerial perspective of Delhi’s natural scenery, riverside, and urban landscape, significantly enhancing the city’s tourism appeal,” the official statement noted.

Tethered flights will be available for four hours each day, though the DDA may extend this based on demand.

The prime ballooning season in North India runs from November to February, offering optimal weather conditions, and public rides are expected to begin shortly.

The DDA has made substantial efforts to rejuvenate the Yamuna, with numerous projects underway along its banks, including Asita, which has transformed from encroached land into a vibrant green space.

Additionally, the DDA has created Baansera Bamboo Park at Sarai Kale Khan, a site previously used for construction and demolition waste, now featuring over 30,000 bamboo plants, three water bodies, and a musical fountain.

The Yamuna Sports Complex, located in Surajmal Vihar, stands as the largest sports complex developed by the DDA, while the Commonwealth Games Sports Complex, established for the 2010 Commonwealth Games held in the National Capital, is highlighted as a key site for the hot air balloon rides.