Tragic Helicopter Crash Halts Chardham Yatra Services: What You Need to Know

Helicopter Services Suspended Following Fatal Crash

In Dehradun, helicopter operations along the Chardham yatra route have been halted for two days following a tragic accident involving a chopper returning from Kedarnath. The crash, which occurred on Sunday morning, resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, including the pilot.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami convened an urgent meeting with senior officials to address the incident. He announced that helicopter services would be suspended for two days due to adverse weather conditions, emphasizing that passenger safety is the government's highest priority.

During the meeting, Dhami instructed officials to establish a strict standard operating procedure (SOP) for helicopter operations and to create a control and command center. He also called for accountability regarding the crash.

Dhami stressed the importance of adhering to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations and ensuring that pilots operating in the challenging Himalayan terrain possess adequate experience.

The Chief Secretary, along with the Tourism and Civil Aviation Secretary, Disaster Secretary, and officials from UCADA and DGCA, participated in the video conference meeting.

The Chief Minister attributed the crash to poor weather conditions and reiterated that helicopter services would remain suspended on Sunday and Monday. He stated, "The safety of pilgrims is of utmost importance. No helicopter services will operate today or tomorrow. Aviation companies, DGCA, and UCADA must thoroughly assess the situation before resuming operations."

Helicopter accidents and emergency landings have become increasingly frequent along the Chardham yatra route in Uttarakhand, which includes the sacred sites of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri.

This incident marks the fifth helicopter accident on the pilgrimage route since the yatra commenced on April 30.