Baripada, Oct 6: The much-awaited helitaxi service between Bhubaneswar and Baripada appears to have hit uncertainty, nearly eight months after a successful trial run raised hopes of better connectivity to Mayurbhanj and its tourist destinations.

A six-seater helicopter operated by Pawan Hans had successfully completed a trial run from Bhubaneswar to the Baripada Police Parade Ground on February 25. The service was expected to begin from the first week of March, with around four to five flights every month between the Baripada Police Line helipad and Bhubaneswar airport.

The proposed service had generated considerable interest among residents of Mayurbhanj as well as tourists planning to visit Similipal, Barehipani and Joranda. Better air connectivity was expected to give a major boost to tourism in the district.

However, despite the successful trial run, the proposed helitaxi service has failed to progress as planned. Nearly eight months later, regular operations are yet to begin.

Also Read: Mayurbhanj set to benefit from Bhubaneswar–Baripada Heli Taxi Service

Pawan Hans MoU under uncertainty?

According to reports, the MoU signed with Pawan Hans for the service has now become uncertain, raising questions over the future of the project.

The February trial had created expectations that Baripada would soon get a faster air connection with the state capital. The plan was also seen as an important step towards improving access to Mayurbhanj’s tourism circuit.

The proposed helitaxi was expected to make travel more convenient for tourists visiting Similipal and other major attractions, while also benefiting people travelling between Mayurbhanj and Bhubaneswar.

With the service still not operational, questions are now being raised over what happened to the project after the successful trial run and when, if at all, the Baripada-Bhubaneswar helitaxi service will finally take off.