Ban on paragliding in Bir-Billing till Sept 15

Our Correspondent

Palampur, July 9

The government Tuesday imposed a ban on paragliding in Bir-Billing in Kangra district from July 9 to September 15.

The decision has been taken to prevent any untoward incident in the rainy season and to ensure the safety of tourists and locals.

A senior government official said all fliers and pilots had been directed not to take off from Billing. Tourists visiting the areas had also been asked to follow the order, failing which stringent action would be taken.

The Bir-Billing Paragliding Association had been asked to withdraw all fliers from Billing immediately.

The official said the SDM and the DSP, Baijnath, had been told to ensure the strict implementation of the government order.

Travel agencies in India and abroad had also been asked not to make bookings for paragliding in Bir-Billing. The copies of the order have been sent to local agents as well.

In past three months, a number of fatal mishaps have been reported in the area. Lee Bing, a Korean pilot, has been missing for the past 25 days. Members of his family are camping at Bir to locate him. Although his glider has been recovered in the Dhauladhar hills, he is yet to be traced.