Dharamshala (HP) (PTI): An experienced pilot was killed when a tandem paraglider developed a technical malfunction shortly after take off and crashed near the road below the launch site in Kangra district, officials said.

The incident occurred at the internationally renowned Bir Billing paragliding site.

The accident occurred on Friday evening when a tandem paraglider 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 died while the accompanying tourist sustained injuries.

The pilot, identified as Mohan Singh, a resident of Barot in Mandi district, was critically injured in the crash.

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Local residents and rescue teams rushed to the spot and shifted both the pilot and the tourist to a hospital.

However, Singh succumbed to his injuries on way to the hospital, while the tourist was reported to be out of danger after receiving first aid.

A case has been registered, and an investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Authorities are examining whether the incident was caused by a technical fault, human error, or weather-related factors.

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.

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.

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Thiruvananthapuram (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Kerala on April 4 as part of the NDA’s Assembly election campaign, BJP sources said on Thursday.

The PM is scheduled to attend a public meeting in Thiruvalla and take part in a roadshow in Thiruvananthapuram, they added.

Modi will arrive at the NSS College grounds in Changanassery, Kottayam district, at around 3 pm and travel by road to Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta district.

There, he will address a large gathering at the Public Stadium, with party leaders and NDA candidates from nearby constituencies expected to be present.

Later in the day, the Prime Minister will reach Thiruvananthapuram and participate in a roadshow covering about 1.5 kilometres from Killipalam Junction to Karamana, which is expected to draw a large number of party workers and supporters.

Senior BJP leaders, including Rajeev Chandrasekhar and V Muraleedharan, will also take part. Modi is expected to meet NDA candidates from the district before returning to Delhi in the evening.

Kerala will go to the polls on April 9.