Rental Helicopter: Government Yet to Renew Contract Despite Requests

Thiruvananthapuram: The Finance Department has raised objections to the police department's request to renew the lease of the helicopter hired by the state government. The existing lease expired on Saturday.

The State Police Chief had written twice to the Home Secretary seeking a two-year extension of the lease. However, the contract has not been renewed due to the Finance Department's lack of cooperation.

The helicopter operated by Chipsan Aviation was hired during the LDF government's tenure for use during emergencies. It was used mainly as an air ambulance for organ transportation. The original agreement included a provision allowing the three-year contract to be extended by another two years.

Accordingly, the State Police Chief first wrote to the Home Secretary on June 8 seeking an extension. Another letter was sent last Friday. Although the first letter was forwarded to the Finance Department, no decision has been taken so far.

The use of the helicopter by the Chief Minister for private trips after the UDF government came to power had earlier triggered controversy.