Bir-Billing authorities tighten safety norms after surge in paragliding mishaps

In the wake of a series of paragliding accidents at Bir-Billing, including the recent death of Canadian pilot Megan Elizabeth, the Himachal Pradesh government convened a review meeting to bolster safety measures. The meeting, held under the chairmanship of Baijnath SDM Sankalp Gautam, was attended by District Tourism Officer Vinay Dhiman, officials from the Special Area Development Authority, representatives of the Paragliding Association and several pilots.

The discussions focused on tightening operational standards, enhancing pilot accountability and improving administrative monitoring. Emphasising that Bir-Billing’s reputation depended on uncompromised safety, SDM Gautam directed that all long-distance flights be conducted in groups to ensure prompt assistance in emergencies. He mandated compulsory use of GPS tracking devices for real-time monitoring of flights.

To strengthen accountability, the administration will periodically verify pilots’ insurance documents and is preparing a proposal to divide the flying area into green, orange and red zones, a move aimed at clearly identifying safe and high-risk regions. Gautam stressed that maintaining Bir-Billing’s image as a safe paragliding hub requires collective responsibility and better coordination among pilots, tourism officials and local administration.

The SDM also revealed plans to upgrade the online registration system to make pilot certification, identification and pre-flight safety checks more transparent and digitally traceable.

District Tourism Officer Dhiman underscored that sustainable tourism depends on discipline and strict adherence to safety laws. Experts at the meeting recommended regular weather briefings, pilot training and emergency rescue drills, noting that weather negligence remains a leading cause of accidents.

With these reforms, authorities aim to reaffirm Bir-Billing’s status as one of the safest paragliding destinations in the world.