Team Goemkarponn
MAPUSA: Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte,explained that paragliding is not prohibited in Goa; rather, it has been temporarily suspended.
Khaunte clarified to reporters that organizers need to provide the necessary paperwork for validation. The department will authorize the resumption of operations if no anomalies are discovered.
“The distinction between a suspension and a ban is evident. For the time being, we have just halted paragliding operations,” he stated.
“Paragliding is an intense and daring sport. Accidents can still happen even with all the safety measures in place. But we’re steadfast in our resolve to make sure the right laws are in place. As previously mentioned, anyone participating in paragliding activities needs to have the required authorization. They will be permitted to carry on with business as usual if their paperwork is in place,” Khaunte continued.
“We are very clear: we want to ensure that all activities are safe and secure for the people of Goa,” he said.
The suspension came after two people, including a female Maharashtra visitor, died tragically. Shivani Dabale and paragliding pilot Suman Nepali were named as the victims. The tourism department responded by directing that all paragliding operations in Goa be halted till further notice.
The clarification follows Calangute MLA Michael Lobo’s opposition to a complete paragliding ban in Goa and his desire for stricter safety rules to be implemented.
Shekhar Raizada, the proprietor of Hike ‘n’ Fly, the business that organizes the paragliding activity, has been placed under 14 days of judicial custody in the meanwhile. For last rites, Suman Nepali’s body has been given to his family.
