Chief Minister Launches Official Website for Billing Paragliding World Cup 2024.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the official website for the Paragliding World Cup 2024, set to take place at Bir Billing in Kangra district from 2nd to 9th November this year. Organized by the Billing Paragliding Association in collaboration with the Himachal Pradesh Government, this international event marks a significant milestone in promoting adventure tourism in the region.
Highlighting the event’s importance, Chief Minister Sukhu expressed pride in hosting such a prestigious competition amidst the scenic backdrop of the Dhauladhar Mountain range. He announced that 130 pilots from approximately 50 countries are expected to participate, making it one of the most challenging and exhilarating paragliding competitions globally.
“The Paragliding World Cup at Bir Billing not only showcases the exceptional skills of paragliders but also underscores Himachal Pradesh’s potential as a natural paradise for adventure enthusiasts,” stated Chief Minister Sukhu. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and seamless organization of such events.
During the World Cup, Himachal Paragliding Festival will also be held, featuring India’s cultural arts, adventure sports, wellness activities, literature, and entertainment. The Chief Minister announced initiatives to promote ‘Women in Paragliding’ and to showcase India’s sportsmanship and cultural richness through world-class opening and closing ceremonies.
Underlining the state’s focus on tourism development, Chief Minister Sukhu declared Kangra district as the ‘Tourism Capital’ and emphasized infrastructure development to enhance visitor experiences. Plans include the construction of heliports across district headquarters for improved air connectivity, with work already commenced on five heliports including one in Sanjauli for better connectivity to Shimla.
Moreover, to bolster tourism activities, water tourism initiatives will be launched at Govindsagar reservoir in Bilaspur district and Andhroli in Una, alongside promoting hot air ballooning at Pong Dam to boost the local economy. Additionally, shops will be permitted to operate 24 hours during peak tourism seasons to enhance visitor convenience.
Anurag Sharma, President of the Billing Paragliding Association, remarked that the World Cup will not only showcase the extraordinary talent of paragliders but also highlight the adventure opportunities and scenic beauty of the Kangra region on an international platform.
Present at the launch were MLA Harish Janartha, Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation Surender Chauhan, Principal Advisor IT and Innovation to the Chief Minister Gokul Butail, OSD to Chief Minister Ritesh Kapret, President of PWCA, and Meet Director for the Paragliding World Cup Goran Dimishkovski, who joined virtually.
