Bhopal, Sep 23 (NationPress) In a significant move to boost tourism and enhance regional connectivity, the government of Madhya Pradesh has announced a helicopter service initiative that will span three critical sectors of the state.

This project, developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, is intended to connect vital cultural, religious, and commercial sites through air travel, positioning Madhya Pradesh as a pioneer among Indian states in adopting a detailed aviation-based tourism approach, as stated by Kailash Vijayvargiya, the state’s urban development minister and spokesperson, following a cabinet meeting.

The first sector encompasses Indore, Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Mandu, Maheshwar, Gandhi Sagar, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Hanuman, Khandwa, Banpur, Barwani, Rajpur, Ratlam, Jharsuguda, Nalkhara, and Bhopal. These locales are recognized for their historical importance and scenic charm, and the helicopter service is anticipated to enhance accessibility for both domestic and international visitors.

The second sector links Bhopal to destinations such as Pachmarhi, Tamia, Chhindwara, Sanchi, Datia, Damoh, Gwalior, Shivpuri, Kucha, Ochha, Guna, Rajgarh, Sagarput, Vaikunth, and Timgarh. This route is designed to promote heritage tourism and pilgrimage circuits, with Bhopal and Indore acting as central hubs, according to the minister.

Meanwhile, the third sector targets eastern and central Madhya Pradesh, connecting Jabalpur, Kanha National Park, Chitrapur, Sarasi, Parsali, Mehar, Satna, Panna, Khajuraho, Patti, Rewa, Sindori, Amarkantak, Sini, Seedi, Manda, Pech, Dandori, along with Bhopal and Indore. This route is expected to draw eco-tourists and wildlife lovers, particularly due to the prominence of Kanha and Panna as leading tiger reserves, as noted by the ministers.

Indore, prominently featured in all three sectors, is being established as the aviation and commercial core of Central India.

With existing helicopter services already functional in the city, the expansion is set to catalyze both tourism and business travel.

Officials are optimistic that improved air connectivity will not only cut down travel time but also stimulate economic growth in remote and underserved areas.

This helicopter tourism initiative is part of a larger strategy to incorporate aviation into the state's developmental framework. By utilizing the PPP model, the government seeks to ensure affordability, operational effectiveness, and innovation from the private sector.

As the rollout commences, stakeholders are looking forward to a surge in tourist arrivals and commercial activity throughout Madhya Pradesh's varied landscape.