Bir Billing, nestled in the majestic Himalayas, is a premier destination for paragliding enthusiasts from across India. Each year, thousands of pilots flock to this breathtaking locale to savor the thrill of flight and share in the euphoria of soaring through the sky.

However, one of the most significant challenges faced by pilots in this remote region is Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, exacerbated by the lack of cell and satellite coverage.

To address this critical issue, a dedicated team of volunteers has established a Meshtastic network. This innovative system enables pilots to carry an affordable Meshtastic device that continuously broadcasts their location and facilitates text-based communication among them.

Maintaining and expanding this network is a substantial undertaking, and we need your support to make it sustainable. We are launching this crowdfunding campaign to fund the following crucial upgrades:

• Enhanced Network Coverage: Installing additional network nodes in optimal locations to maximize line-of-sight and coverage.
• Reliable Power Supply: Implementing solar panels to ensure a continuous 24/7 power supply for the network.
• Secure Internet Connectivity: Providing internet access to ensure secure data transmission for centralized tracking.
• Network Servers: Acquiring servers to collect, store, and display pilot position data, aiding in efficient SAR operations.

Your contributions will help us improve safety and support the paragliding community by making rescue operations more effective and reliable. Join us in enhancing the safety and enjoyment of paragliding in Bir Billing.

For a complete overview of the project, visit https://bit.ly/MeshtasticBir. For more information about our efforts, see https://bircom.in, and to become part of the community driving this project, join us on our telegram channel at https://t.me/meshtastic_india. For relevant pictures, check out our album at https://www.icloud.com/sharedalbum/#B0q5qXGF129r7m1