Paratroopers to continue in Independence Day rehearsals despite mid-air mishap

• Four paratroopers injured due to change in wind direction   

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Despite the unfortunate mid-air incident last morning where four paratroopers were injured, paratroopers of the Sri Lanka tri-forces and Police are to continue in rehearsals for the Independence Day celebrations at Galle Face Green,  Four paratroopers from Sri Lanka Army and Sri Lanka Air Force were injured yesterday morning (30), during rehearsals for the National Independence Day celebrations at Galle Face Green.   

It was reported that during the parachute rehearsal, two parachutes collided in the sky, resulting in an accident.   

Army Spokesman Major General K.A.N. Rasika Kumara said two paratroopers landed on a hotel building when their parachutes failed to open.   
Another paratrooper of the SLAF landed on the ground after it collided with the parachute of another paratrooper.   

Officials said that the accident has occured due to a rare and unexpected change in wind direction.   

It was reported that 40 paratroopers, 15 each from the SLAF and the Army, six from the Sri Lanka Navy and four from the STF participated in the rehearsals.   
Meanwhile, Air Force spokesman Group Captain Dushan Wijesinghe said the four paratroopers have sustained minor injuries, and are receiving treatment at the National Hospital in Colombo and the Army Hospital.