Experienced Paragliding Pilot Dies in Bir Billing Accident

An experienced paraglider, identified as Mohan Singh, tragically lost his life in an accident at the renowned Bir Billing paragliding site in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh, on December 28, 2023. The incident occurred when a tandem paraglider experienced a technical malfunction shortly after take-off, resulting in a loss of balance and subsequent crash near the road below the launch site.

The accident unfolded on the evening of December 27, when Singh was piloting the tandem paraglider from the Billing launch point. According to officials from the Bir Billing Paragliding Association, the paraglider encountered a malfunction that led to the fatal incident. Local residents and rescue teams quickly arrived at the scene, providing assistance to both the critically injured pilot and the accompanying tourist.

Despite the efforts of the rescue teams, Singh succumbed to his injuries while being transported to a hospital. The tourist, whose identity has not been disclosed, was treated for injuries but is reported to be in stable condition after receiving first aid.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

In the wake of the accident, authorities promptly suspended all paragliding activities for a day as a mark of respect. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the accident. Investigators are focusing on potential factors such as technical faults, human error, and weather conditions.

Vinay Kumar, the District Tourism Development Officer for Kangra, stated that all relevant documents and information regarding the incident have been requested from the marshals and technical advisors stationed at the site. He emphasized that further actions would be guided by the findings of the investigation report.

This tragic event has reignited concerns regarding the safety measures in place at adventure sports locations, particularly concerning the regular inspection of equipment, pilot certification processes, and strict adherence to safety protocols. As adventure sports gain popularity, ensuring the safety of participants remains a critical priority for authorities and operators in the region.