Second round of bidding for Udan scheme begins

New Delhi Aug 24 (IANS) The government on Thursday launched the second round of bidding under its air regional connectivity scheme Udan with select changes to bolster connectivity in hilly and difficult terrain.

"The second round has started... It is expected to fructify by November. Some key changes have been made in this round like allowing helicopter operations " said Union Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju.

"Our focus has not changed. We still want the regional connectivity to happen. The first round is in the final stages of implementation barring a few difficult airports."

The operations are intended to provide air connectivity to un-served and remote routes with airfare being capped at Rs 2 500 for an hour s journey.

--IANS
rv/him/mr