Helicopter Crash in Uttarakhand: Search and Rescue Operations Underway

A private helicopter crashed near Joshimath in Uttarakhand, leading to a significant search and rescue operation. Six individuals were on board the aircraft, and rescue teams, including the State Disaster Response Force, are actively working at the site. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is overseeing the situation and has ensured that injured passengers will be airlifted to medical facilities. The crash occurred in the Vishnuprayag area, and adverse weather conditions are complicating rescue efforts. Further details about the incident and the passengers' conditions are awaited.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 30, 2026, 15:57 IST

Helicopter Incident Near Joshimath

File image of Badrinath temple(Photo: @PMNehru/X)

Chamoli, Oct 30: A private helicopter crashed near Chai village, close to Joshimath in Uttarakhand on Friday, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation. Six individuals were reportedly aboard the aircraft.

The incident took place in the Vishnuprayag region, situated between Badrinath and Joshimath. Rescue teams, including members from the district administration and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), have been dispatched to the crash site.

Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed the occurrence and stated that he is closely monitoring the situation.

In a message shared on social media platform X, the Chief Minister expressed, "We have received the unfortunate news of a helicopter crash near Chai village, close to Joshimath. A collaborative rescue operation is underway involving the district administration, disaster management department, and SDRF."

He further mentioned that directives have been issued to ensure that any seriously injured passengers are promptly airlifted to advanced medical facilities for urgent care.

"I am continuously overseeing the entire situation. I pray for the safe return of the passengers," CM Dhami added.

Medical teams have been deployed to the area, and officials are coordinating the search and rescue efforts.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Madan Singh Bisht stated that information regarding the incident is being collected.

Chamoli District Disaster Management Officer Nandkishore Joshi reported sightings of a white object ablaze in the forest above the JP Dam, believed to be the helicopter. Additional helicopters have been sent for aerial reconnaissance to assist in locating the aircraft.

Initial reports indicate that the helicopter, registered as VT-HCX and operated by Trans Bharat Aviation, departed from Badrinath around 1:12 p.m. on Friday. Its last known contact was near the Army post on Hathi Pahad, opposite Joshimath.

Chamoli District Magistrate Gaurav Kumar confirmed that the administration initiated a rescue operation immediately upon receiving news of the crash. The district administration is collaborating with the helicopter operator to evaluate the situation.

Ongoing rainfall and thick cloud cover in the area have complicated search and rescue operations.

Further updates regarding the incident and the condition of those on board are pending.

This incident follows two earlier emergency landings involving helicopters on Uttarakhand's Char Dham routes this month. One helicopter made an emergency landing in Rudraprayag due to adverse weather, while another was forced to land in Tehri because of a technical malfunction.