CM Mohan Yadav Escapes Hot Air Balloon Fire Scare at Gandhisagar Forest Retreat

A major accident was averted in Mandsaur as a hot air balloon caught fire moments before takeoff. CM Mohan Yadav remained safe, raising questions over tourism safety protocols.

Mandsaur: In one of interviews, CM Mohan Yadav recalled his amazing experience of the Mahakal Aarti and the divine blessings he feels he has. A major accident was averted on Saturday morning at Gandhisagar Forest Retreat, located in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav was preparing for a hot air balloon ride organized here to promote tourism. As soon as the balloon was about to take off, its lower part suddenly caught fire.

During this time, the takeoff of the balloon was already difficult due to strong winds. The staff present on the spot immediately showed alertness and controlled the fire. The Chief Minister's trolley was also handled by the security personnel in time, due to which there was no damage and he remained completely safe.

CM spent the night at Hinglaj Resort

The incident happened when CM Mohan Yadav was staying at Hinglaj Resort. He inaugurated the fourth edition of the Gandhi Sagar Festival on Friday. After the inauguration, he also enjoyed a cruise ride in the Chambal Dam backwater area** and boating on Saturday morning.

Hot air ballooning was organized with the aim of promoting tourism in the region, but at that time strong winds of 20 kmph were blowing, due to which the balloon had difficulty flying.

Collector's statement: "This is just a rumor."

After the incident, Mandsaur Collector Aditi Garg issued an official statement and called this news misleading. He said, "The Chief Minister only went to see the balloon. All safety standards were followed during the flight process. There has been no lapse."

He also appealed to the citizens to not pay attention to rumors.

Questions raised on tourism safety

Gandhi Sagar Forest Retreat is a major tourism project of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. Activities like hot air ballooning, paramotoring, and water sports take place here. It has also recently received the 'Best State Tourism Board Award.'

The responsibility of this event was given to the private company Lallu Ji & Sons, and now after this incident their role can also be investigated. This incident has raised concerns about safety standards in tourism activities.

Although there was no major damage and the Chief Minister is safe, this incident should be seen as a warning. Strict adherence to safety standards is necessary in tourism-related activities so that such incidents can be avoided in the future.