Video: Paraglider trapped on high voltage wires in Himachal Pradesh; 146 meter crane used in rescue

A paraglider was rescued after getting entangled in a power line about 150 meters above the ground in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district on Tuesday. The pilot remained suspended for almost two and a half hours before a rescue team brought him to safety using a 146 meter hydraulic crane.

According to a report from The Times of Indiathe incident took place near Mehar village, about five kilometers from Mandi town. A paraglider got caught on a power line along the Pathankot-Mandi highway during the afternoon.

Other paragliders who witnessed the incident alerted the administration, following which the power supply was disconnected, the official said.

A 146-meter hydraulic crane was deployed for recovery

Mandi Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and police officials reached the spot but getting the pilot down from such a height was a big challenge.

The administration secured a 146-meter hydraulic crane for the rescue operation. SDRF personnel used a crane basket to reach the stranded paraglider and bring it down safely.

As a precautionary measure, people gathered at the spot spread a sheet and mattresses on the ground under the pilot in case he falls during the operation, TOI reported.

Pathankot-Mandi highway closed for heavy vehicles

The rescue operation also affected traffic on the Pathankot-Mandi highway. The road was closed to heavy vehicles while the crane was being installed.

The pilot was then safely thrown down, ending the difficult rescue operation.