Kerala govt’s helicopter plans hit rough weather
A move by Kerala government to hire a helicopter for anti-Naxal operations and VIP movements has triggered a row as the state is facing acute financial crunches.
The government decided to sign an agreement with Pawan Hans Limited for hiring a twin-engine 11-seater helicopter at a monthly rent of Rs. 1.44 crore for 20 hours flying and around Rs. 67,900 for every additional hour.
However, the Opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front strongly opposed it citing that the decision came at a time when the state was facing acute financial crunches and even restrictions imposed on the exchequer. Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala alleged of vested interests behind the move to hire a helicopter.
