Serbian paraglider pilot rescued from 4,200-metre altitude in daring operation in Himachal
Manali: In a challenging rescue operation, a team from the Adventure Tour Operator Association Kullu-Manali saved the life of Serbian paraglider pilot Miroslav Prodenovic, who was stranded at an altitude of 4,200 metres above sea level.
Prodenovic, who had taken off from the famous Bir Billing paragliding site in Kangra district, lost his way on Friday and crash-landed near Patalsu Jot, close to Rohtang Pass in Manali, sustaining severe injuries and a fractured foot.
The incident unfolded when Prodenovic, who was flying solo, became disoriented and ended up far from his intended destination.
His three companions, who had also launched from Bir Billing, landed safely in Solang Nullah in Manali while Prodenovic accidentally ventured towards the treacherous Patalsu Jot.
Upon learning of his crash and injuries, the fellow pilots alerted the locals in Solang Nullah, who quickly contacted the rescue team.
The Adventure Tour Operator Association Kullu-Manali, armed with modern rescue equipment, was notified by the police and district administration.
A four-member team set out from Solang Nullah around 4 pm on Friday, embarking on a difficult four-hour trek up the steep terrain.
By 8 pm, the rescue team, led by team leader Jogi and members Diwan, Joginder, Gholu, Yogu, Khimi, Sanju and Bhola, reached Prodenovic, who was stranded on a rocky slope with a broken leg, an injured knee, and bleeding from his nose and mouth.
Despite the rugged terrain and darkness, the rescuers safely brought the injured pilot down to Solang Nullah by 2 am where he was stabilised before being transported to Manali hospital.
The local police confirmed the pilot’s arrival at the hospital by 4 am.
The incident marks the third paragliding accident in Kullu district in just three days, underscoring growing concerns about safety in the region’s paragliding activities.
On October 30, a Belgian paraglider pilot tragically lost his life, and the next day, Czech pilot Dita Misurkova (43) succumbed to injuries sustained in a crash after taking off from Madhi.
The latest incident with Prodenovic on November 1 highlights the risks associated with paragliding in these mountainous areas, especially for foreign pilots unfamiliar with the local terrain.
The rescue operation demonstrated the skill and commitment of the local rescue teams, but the string of accidents has prompted discussions about increasing safety protocols for paragliding enthusiasts in the Kullu-Manali region.
