The popular tourist site of Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district is in the news again for a tragic mishap that killed an experienced paraglider pilot, while injuring the accompanying tourist on Friday evening.
The incident occurred at the internationally renowned Bir Billing paragliding site, when a tandem paraglider, identified as Mohan Singh, resident of Barot in Mandi district, took off from the Billing launch point.
According to officials of the Bir Billing Paragliding Association, the paraglider developed a technical malfunction shortly after take-off, lost balance mid-air, and crashed near the road below the launch site.
The pilot and the tourist were rushed to a hospital by local residents and rescue teams, but Singh succumbed to his injuries on the way. The accompanying tourist has sustained injuries but reported to be out of danger after receiving first aid.
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A case has been registered, and an investigation initiated to determine the exact cause of the accident as authorities examine whether the incident was caused by a technical fault, human error, or weather-related factors.
District Tourism Development Officer, Kangra, Vinay Kumar, said all documents and information related to the accident have been sought from the marshals and technical advisors stationed at the site.
“Further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation report,” he said.
The tragic accident prompted the authorities and operators to suspend all paragliding activities for a day as a mark of respect for the deceased.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns about safety arrangements at adventure sports destinations, especially regarding regular equipment checks, pilot certification, and strict adherence to safety protocols.
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