Helicopter Crash in Uttarakhand: Seven Dead, Including Infant, on Spiritual Journey

National News:  A tragic accident has once again struck the holy route of the Char Dham Yatra. In the early hours of Sunday, a helicopter crashed between Gaurikund and Sonprayag in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. According to preliminary reports, all seven people on board, including an infant, have lost their lives. The helicopter belonged to Aryan Aviation Company and was returning to Guptkashi after ferrying pilgrims from Shri Kedarnath Dham.

Bad Weather Blamed for the Crash

The helicopter had taken off from Kedarnath at around 5:30 AM on Sunday morning. During the flight, the weather reportedly deteriorated suddenly. It is said that the pilot attempted to steer the aircraft out of the valley but lost control, resulting in the crash in a mountainous region.

Nepali-Origin Women Reported the Crash

According to District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar, local women of Nepali origin, who were cutting grass in the Gauri Mai Khark forest, heard the crash and saw smoke rising from the site. On receiving this information, the administration sprang into action, and teams from the SDRF, NDRF, and local police were immediately dispatched to the location.

Rescue Operation Underway, Heli Services Suspended

Rescue efforts have been underway since the incident, but rough terrain and poor weather conditions have posed significant challenges. As a precaution, the administration has temporarily suspended all heli services in the area.

Chief Minister Dhami Expresses Grief

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic incident. In a post on social media platform ‘X,’ he offered condolences to the bereaved families and assured them that the state government is fully committed to relief and rescue operations.

Detailed Briefing from Nodal Officer

District Tourism Development Officer and Heli Service Nodal Officer Rahul Choubey stated that the helicopter was initially reported missing in the morning. Upon investigation, it was confirmed to have crashed. The helicopter was carrying a pilot, five pilgrims, and one infant at the time of the accident.

Renewed Concerns Over Heli Safety

This accident has once again raised serious concerns about the safety and monitoring of helicopter services operating in mountainous terrains. The administration has ordered a thorough investigation, and a comprehensive technical review of the incident is underway. 

This heartbreaking tragedy involving pilgrims on the Char Dham Yatra has shaken the entire nation. It is now hoped that the authorities will learn from this disaster and implement stricter aerial safety protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.