No accident during parasailing at Mattupetty, clarify tourism officials

Thodupuzha: Tourism department officials have clarified that no accident occurred during a parasailing activity at the Mattupetty Dam, countering reports that a tourist from Tamil Nadu had fallen into the water.

According to officials of the Kerala Hydel Tourism Centre, the tourist had intentionally landed in the water as part of the parasailing experience, and the activity was conducted safely and as per standard procedure.

Did anything go wrong during the parasailing?

Officials said parasailing commonly involves landing either on a boat or in the water. Tourists who opt for a water landing are usually charged an additional ₹500. On the day of the incident, strong winds led to a planned water landing, they explained.

There was no malfunction or safety issue during the activity. They added that the chance of a safety belt getting loose is practically impossible. The only complaint raised by the tourist was that his wristwatch was lost during landing.

Authorities added that tourists are clearly instructed to keep their valuables aside before the activity. However, the tourist reportedly refused to remove the watch despite being advised.

Is water landing common at other tourist spots?

Tourism officials said water landings are common at several adventure tourism locations, including Varkala. However, in Munnar, water landings are often avoided due to colder temperatures, though they are allowed depending on weather conditions.

About parasailing at Mattupetty

Parasailing at the Mattupetty Dam began six months ago. The project is operated jointly by Hydel Tourism, under the Electricity Department, and a private operator under a revenue-sharing model.

The system uses a high-safety boat worth ₹1.2 crore. Participants are secured with a belt and provided with a life jacket. As the boat moves forward, the parachute lifts the participant into the air, allowing them to glide before landing safely either on the boat or in the water.