August 29: The prospect of operating Pokhara Regional International Airport from January next year has threatened the business of paragliding at nearby Sarangkot. The adventure sport has found an important place in the tourism industry of Nepal.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, it is not possible to operate paragliding at Sarangkot once the airport comes into operation. This has caused fear among the tourism entrepreneurs of the area.
Pokhara has over 60 paragliding companies in operation at present. This business is providing direct jobs to around 360 pilots, says Krishna Bhandari, outgoing chairperson of the Nepal Airsports Association, Pokhara.    
"Paragliding is the identity of Pokhara," says Bhandari.    
The authorities concerned have been urged to take initiatives not to discontinue the sport while operating the airport. The government authorities are positive about it, says Bhandari. In an event recently held in Pokhara, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Jeevan Ram Shrestha had assured of seeking ways to continue paragliding while operating the airport.

“In the process, air safety should not be compromised,” said Minister Shrestha.

"Tourism entrepreneurs in Pokhara have demanded the conservation of paragliding, a brand name in the tourist city. There cannot be any compromise on aviation safety. We are working to continue the sport in such a way that it does not compromise aviation safety," said Minister Shrestha.  -- RSS