Dharamshala Paragliding Crash: 27-Year-Old Tourist Killed In Indru Nag, Pilot Injured

A tragic paragliding accident near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh has claimed the life of a 27-year-old tourist from Gujarat. The victim, Satish Rajesh, was on a tandem flight with pilot Suraj when their paraglider lost control shortly after take-off from the Indru Nag Paragliding Site. The incident, captured on video, shows the paraglider plunging into a ditch moments after lift-off.

Satish sustained severe injuries and was initially taken to Zonal Hospital in Dharamshala. He was later transferred to Tanda Medical College in Kangra, where he succumbed to his injuries on Monday. Meanwhile, pilot Suraj is receiving medical treatment for his injuries. This incident has once again highlighted safety concerns surrounding paragliding activities in the region.

Paragliding Safety Concerns

Over the past 30 months, more than 12 fatalities have been reported in paragliding-related incidents in Himachal Pradesh. Many of these accidents involved free fliers who ventured into risky areas without adequate knowledge of local wind patterns and topography. This latest tragedy occurred just days before a planned seasonal ban on adventure activities due to the monsoon season starting on 15 July.

Earlier this year, another tourist from Gujarat named Bhavsar Khushi died during a tandem flight at the same site. January alone witnessed two additional fatal paragliding accidents in the region. These incidents have raised questions about the enforcement of safety protocols and regulations governing adventure sports in Himachal Pradesh.

The Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) City, Hitesh Lakhanpal, confirmed that Satish's family has been informed about his demise. The body will be handed over after completing post-mortem procedures. A comprehensive investigation has been ordered to determine if negligence or violation of safety protocols contributed to the crash.

The local Station House Officer (SHO) has been tasked with leading the inquiry into this incident. Additionally, a letter has been sent to the tourism department requesting an internal review of safety measures at paragliding sites. Authorities aim to identify any lapses and ensure stricter adherence to safety guidelines.