The Hindu Business Line : Sail in the air

It’s a typical windy day in Kanwarsika, Gurgaon, and the group of corporate adventure-seekers are all braced for the parasailing action. The young and not-so-young members of the group shiver as the wind sweeps the ground at their feet.

With all preparations in place, it’s time for some dos and don’ts from the organisers, Col (retd) Suraj Dalal and his son Atul. “If you can sit you can fly. Your comfortable seat harness attaches directly to the parasail. All you do is clip in and enjoy a panoramic view,” Col Dalal says, cautioning the faint hearted not to clasp the parasail ropes lest it affects the flight.

A bearded man in a straw hat volunteers for the first flight of the day. The others in the group hold their breath as he is strapped into the harness. He then follows Atul behind the tough looking ‘Gypsy’ vehicle.

As the vehicle moves forward, the parachute — attached through a 300-ft long rope — lifts into the air and the man is airborne… cruising effortlessly. Soon the ‘wingless bird’ is just a speck in the sky.

After traversing about a kilometre, the vehicle comes to a halt and it’s time for the descent. Very gradually, the ‘bird’ is back on its feet. It’s time for the next volunteer and this time there are many.Col Dalal and his team are busy for the next three hours, giving everyone a chance to get airborne.

The retired colonel is director of the National Adventure Foundation, Delhi and Haryana Chapter, which organises aero sports, rock climbing, rappelling, and summer and winter camps for youngsters and corporate adventure-seekers. The foundation aims to popularise parasailing, especially among underprivileged sections of society, as an alternative to other expensive adventure sports. Asked about the risks, if any, involved with parasailing, Col Dalal says there is no risk because the controls are with the person towing the parasail. The speed and altitude can be adjusted according to wind conditions. The maximum height gained that morning was 350 ft, but this also varies according to the weight of the person and the wind velocity.

Since parasailing was started at Kanwarsika in 2000, Col Dalal has conducted over 10,000 launches, hoisting people ranging from a 100-kg ‘sumo’ wrestler to a featherweight five-year-old.

Parasailing has two variations: terrestrial and aquatic with the use of jeep or motorboat to tow the parasail.

Goa, Thiruvananthapuram and some parts of Orissa and Manipur are popular destinations for parasailing. “It’s a confidence-building measure which prepares you for advanced aero sports and adventures,” says Col Dalal.