New Delhi: As preparations gather momentum for the conduct of the first-ever AAI Paragliding World Cup 2015, another set of preparations have already been set in motion for “Rescue and Retrieval” operations in case of any emergences during the event.

With more than 130 Paragliding Pilots coming over from across the world and another 400-500 free fliers, who throng Bir Billing each year, the “Rescue and Retrieval” systems been accorded top priority for the event.

While the gorgeous Dhauladhar Mountains Ranges and the meadows down below offer a superb view for the fliers, there is always an inherent danger and the Billing Paragliding Association (BPA), which is organising the event is leaving nothing to chance.

Mr. Sudhir Sharma, President of BPA, said, “It is a major event and even though the top pilots are very experienced, this sport has dangers attached to it. So we are taking all precautions with a large number of rescue and retrieval teams; Repeaters for a good signal system and a Live tracking equipment with GPS; Helicopters, moveable base sets, large number of ambulances, trauma van and a lot else.”

There will be 20 vehicles for Rescue teams, 10 vehicles for Retrieval teams; six Moveable Base Sets; a dozen ambulances at various crucial points and a Trauma Van, which will be available all times. In addition, there will be one Chopper with winch and one standby Chopper for Rescue Operation near the landing field.

All Rescue Teams will be equipped with Communications devices like Radios and GPS.

According to Rajesh Srivastava, Sr. Vice President of BPA, “There will be rescue teams in the Control Room for back-up and each team has six members and stretcher carriers. Each Rescue Team consists of four Mountaineering Instructors, two trained Marshals, one Paramedic and one policeman. And, each Retrieval Team consists of two trained Marshals, one policeman equipped with radio Set and mobile communication and each Rescue team is equipped with full mountain climb/rescue gear equipment and Hard stretchers.” He also added the GPS and Live Tracking System will be most modern.

Other equipment such as Seat Harnesses, Helmets, Rock Hammers, Descenders, Mitten Pears, Rock Pitons, Ropes and much else will be available in abundance.

The BPA wishes to use the event to create awareness about the sport and create an eco-system to boost the sport and tourism activities in Himachal Pradesh. It will also take Bir Billing closer to becoming the best site in the world for Paragliding. Currently, Bir Billing is the second best in the world.

The event will be held from October 23 to 31, 2015.