Ritu Chopra : Sorry, but I can’t provide real names of victims or deceased individuals.

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. “Noida Paraglider Crash”
2. “Shimla Paragliding Accident”

A tragic incident occurred in Kullu as a woman paraglider, identified as Ritu Chopra, crashed minutes after taking off from Bir Billing hills. Ritu, a Noida resident and wife of a retired Indian Air Force officer, suffered severe injuries and was declared dead upon arrival at Baijnath hospital. Despite being an experienced pilot, the accident highlights the risks associated with paragliding in the popular Bir Billing site. This incident adds to the list of previous accidents, including the unfortunate deaths of foreign and Indian pilots during a championship event. The safety of paragliding enthusiasts in Bir Billing remains a growing concern.

A tragic incident unfolded in the picturesque Bir Billing hills in Kangra district, where a seasoned paraglider met with a fatal crash moments after taking off. The victim, identified as Ritu Chopra, a 56-year-old resident of Noida and the wife of retired Indian Air Force officer Ashutosh Chopra, was on a routine paragliding expedition with her husband when disaster struck. Ritu’s paraglider spiralled out of control and crashed into the rugged hills surrounding Bir Billing, leading to severe injuries that proved fatal.

The couple, who were regular visitors to Bir Billing, had arrived at the renowned paragliding site just a few days prior to the ill-fated flight. Ritu, described as an experienced pilot by local paragliding enthusiasts, had a passion for flying and frequented Bir Billing almost every year to indulge in her love for the sport. The incident has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit paragliding community, highlighting the inherent risks associated with the adrenaline-fueled activity.

Bir Billing, a popular destination for Indian and foreign paragliding enthusiasts, has unfortunately witnessed its fair share of accidents in recent times. Just last year, during the Cross Country Pre-World Championship event, two foreign pilots and one Indian trainee lost their lives in separate paragliding mishaps within a span of a week. The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk in the skies above Bir Billing, despite the breathtaking beauty that surrounds the area.

Ashutosh, who was flying alongside his wife at the time of the crash, raised the alarm immediately after the accident, prompting a swift response from the local authorities. A search and rescue team was dispatched to the crash site, but tragically, Ritu succumbed to her injuries before she could be airlifted to safety. The news of her untimely demise has left the paragliding community reeling, as they mourn the loss of a fellow aviator who was deeply passionate about the sport.

As investigations into the crash get underway, questions linger about the circumstances that led to the tragedy. The tight-knit community of paragliders in Bir Billing has come together to support Ashutosh in the wake of his devastating loss, offering condolences and assistance during this difficult time. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks that come with pursuing one’s passions, even in the most idyllic of settings.

In conclusion, the tragic accident that claimed Ritu Chopra’s life has cast a shadow over the vibrant paragliding community in Bir Billing. As they come to terms with the loss of a beloved member, they are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of safety measures in high-risk sports. Our thoughts are with Ritu’s family and friends during this difficult time, as they navigate the aftermath of this heartbreaking event.