Goa’s Mandrem Beach saw the launch of the latest adventure sport – Motor Paragliding.
Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) tied up with Pune-based Flying Safari to bring powered paragliding to Goa. The new adventure sport will be available at other beaches eventually.
A two-seater flying machine – the motorised paraglider. Launched by the Chief Minister of Goa, Mr. Laxmikant Parsekar. He showed keen interest in the machine, scanning every detail closely.
These powered paragliders termed the ‘Safest Flying Machines’. The features of the glides include : Flying at different altitudes. Going from two feet above the ground to thousands of feet high in the sky. Like a slow flying aircraft, the passengers enjoy every moment high up in the sky with a glimpse of our beautiful Goa.
The motorised paragliding will be available between 8.30 am and 6.30 pm. Each ride will last for about 10 to 15 minutes.
According to GTDC, this initiative will boost adventure tourism and pilgrimage tourism in Pernem Taluka, North Goa.
The Chief Minister said, “The Goa government is promoting adventure and spiritual tourism in a big way. Goa is known for its beaches, temples, and churches and adding new attractions and facilities will increase tourist arrivals to all these locations. The government is committed to promoting tourism and will support all such projects and initiatives that will go a long way in making the state more attractive.”
Also, present for the launch were GTDC chairman Nilesh Cabral and officials from Goa Tourism, as well as GTDC and officials from local governing bodies.
Nilesh Cabral said, “The launch of paragliding at Mandrem beach will give a new avenue for adventurous tourists. Goa has a variety of activities to attract tourists for an exciting holiday.”
In the past, paragliding had to be discontinued due to a suspicion warranted by an act. It is said that a man was arrested in connection with terrorist activities. He took paragliding classes in Goa for a few days at the Anjuna Beach. It was alleged that his intentions were to train other terrorists in this sport. Which could be misused for illegal activities in future.
