Lebanon: Paragliders Fall in Junieh & Ein Zarka – Safety Warning Issued
Three individuals experienced falls while paragliding on Saturday, according to a statement released by the Directorate General of Civil Defense’s Public Relations and Media Department. Two of the paragliders landed in the Ain Warqa – Ghousta forest area, while the third fell within the city limits of Jounieh. Civil Defense personnel responded to both locations and confirmed that all three individuals were in good health and did not require hospitalization.
Safety Concerns and Warnings
The Directorate General of Civil Defense reiterated its call for citizens to adhere to safety guidelines and refrain from paragliding during rainy or stormy weather, citing the serious risks it poses to public safety. This warning follows reports and circulating video footage of the incident in Jounieh.
Worsening Conditions
The Ministry of Youth and Sports also addressed the incident, stating that it followed the paragliders’ decision to fly despite a sudden shift in weather conditions. Winds reportedly exceeded 50 kilometers per hour, nearly resulting in a disaster. The Ministry confirmed it is following the case with relevant authorities.
The Ministry emphasized its commitment to enforcing public safety standards and regulations related to paragliding. It intends to prevent violations, particularly flying in adverse weather, and will adhere to official weather reports. The Ministry stated it will take appropriate legal measures against any violating pilots and associated organizations, pending a report from the technical committee of the Lebanese Air Sports Federation, starting Monday.
Similar incidents have previously resulted in fatalities, prompting increased scrutiny and stricter measures from the Ministry of Youth and Sports to regulate the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on Saturday?
Three citizens fell while paragliding; two in the Ain Warqa – Ghousta forest and one in Jounieh. Civil Defense confirmed all three were unharmed.
What did the Ministry of Youth and Sports say?
The Ministry stated the paragliders flew in deteriorating weather conditions with winds exceeding 50 kilometers per hour and announced it will take legal action against any violators of safety standards.
What is being done to prevent future incidents?
The Ministry is following the case with relevant authorities, emphasizing the enforcement of safety regulations and adherence to official weather reports. A report from the Lebanese Air Sports Federation is expected.
What role do weather conditions play in the safety of paragliding?