Thiruvananthapuram: Despite the prevailing financial challenges, the government has proceeded with its plan to hire a helicopter for the Chief Minister. The green light has been given for a contract arrangement with a private company at a monthly rate of Rs. 80 lakh. The helicopter is expected to arrive in Thiruvananthapuram within two weeks.
Amidst harsh criticism of the government’s fiscal irresponsibility during a time of severe economic strain, concerns are escalating. Critiques have grown more vehement following the Finance Department’s authorization of a helicopter hire, incurring a cost of Rs. 80 lakh. This approval comes on the heels of the government’s recent recommendation. The contract for the helicopter services has been awarded to Chipson Airways. The Home Department’s involvement culminated in the final accord, aligned with resolutions from the March Cabinet Meeting.
In the preceding March discussions, an agreement was outlined to procure helicopter services from Chipson Airways. However, the company stipulated an additional flight charge of Rs. 90,000, a point of contention between the two parties. While the government requested a revision of the rate, the company remained firm in its stance. This standoff led to a temporary suspension of the contract proceedings. Nonetheless, the government ultimately opted to proceed with the contract, agreeing to the company’s specified terms.
Under the agreement authorised by the Finance Department, a monthly cost of Rs. 80 lakh will cover 20 hours of flight time, with supplementary hours incurring a charge of Rs. 90,000 each. The helicopter’s seating capacity is currently configured for 11 individuals, including the pilot. Although official records indicate the helicopter’s intended use for tasks such as Maoist surveillance and disaster area visits, allegations have emerged that the decision was swayed by the Chief Minister’s travel convenience.
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