Bengaluru ; The State Government has announced a ticket fee of ₹150 per person for guided tours of the Vidhana Soudha.
In this regard, Speaker of the Assembly U.T. Khader held a meeting on Tuesday with the Chief Secretary and officials from the Tourism Department.
Earlier this month, the department sought permission from the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR) to conduct tours. In its directive, DPAR stated that tours can be held on Sundays, the second Saturdays, and other government holidays from 8 AM to 6 PM.
"We have approved the proposal to set the entry fee for the guided tours of Vidhana Soudha at ₹150 per person. Visitors will be taken inside the building to see the Legislative Assembly and the Council, among other places. Tour guides will explain the history and significance of the building. The fee will be the same for everyone, including foreign nationals. Tickets must be booked online, and individuals will need to upload certain documents," Khader announced. The ticket price is really exorbitant said a visitor Ramakrishnappa on Wednesday.
The Tourism Department had proposed a fee ranging from ₹20 to ₹50 for accessing the Vidhana Soudha premises (not inside the building), but Khader mentioned, "However, we have rejected that. Those who wish to access the Vidhana Soudha premises must purchase tickets online."
According to a prior directive from the Deputy Secretary of DPAR, there is a necessity to keep the Vidhana Soudha premises clean. The order specifies that plastic items will not be permitted except for water bottles. No food items will be allowed within the Vidhana Soudha premises. Officials must ensure that statues and other structures are not damaged.
The Tourism Department is required to ensure that medical and other emergency services are available. All safety measures must be guaranteed. The order strictly prohibits the flying of drones," it stated.