Legal Action Against Aryan Aviation Following Kedarnath Helicopter Crash

Investigation Launched into Helicopter Incident

The Uttarakhand government has initiated legal proceedings against Aryan Aviation Private Limited for alleged negligence related to the helicopter crash that occurred near Kedarnath on Sunday.

The tragic accident, which took place in the forests of Gaurimai Khark between Gaurikund and Triyuginarayan, resulted in the immediate deaths of all seven individuals on board, including the pilot, due to adverse weather conditions and poor visibility.

According to Rudraprayag police, a case has been filed at the Sonprayag police station against Kaushik Pathak, the accountable manager of Aryan Aviation, and manager Vikas Tomar under Section 105 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 10 of the Aircraft Act.

The police reported that the complaint was lodged by Rajiv Nakholiya, a revenue sub-inspector stationed in Phata. The complaint states that Aryan Aviation was allocated a time slot for helicopter operations from 6 AM to 7 AM on June 15, yet the crash occurred earlier at 5:30 AM.

Moreover, despite the presence of clouds and fog in the sky since morning, the weather conditions were not assessed before the helicopter took off. The complaint alleges that the company ignored guidelines issued by the DGCA and UCADA, fully aware that such actions could jeopardize the safety of passengers.

The complaint further asserts that Aryan Aviation and its managers exhibited gross negligence in fulfilling their responsibilities, leading to the accident that claimed the lives of seven individuals.