By The Sampadak Express
In a tragic accident on Sunday morning, seven people lost their lives after a helicopter crashed near Gaurikund in Uttarakhand. According to Uttarakhand ADG Law and Order V Murugeshan, the helicopter was returning from Kedarnath when it lost its route between Trijuginarayan and Gaurikund, ultimately crashing in the region.
Following the incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed that teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local administration, and other rescue agencies are actively carrying out relief and recovery operations.
In response to the tragedy, the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) announced the suspension of helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra until further notice, citing safety concerns in light of the recent crash.
Cause of Crash & Safety Measures
CM Dhami stated that preliminary information indicates bad weather as the primary cause of the crash. Emphasizing passenger safety, he announced that stringent measures will be implemented. “Pilots operating in the upper Himalayan region must have adequate flying experience in such terrains. Aviation companies are directed to strictly adhere to DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) guidelines. A control and command centre will also be set up for better monitoring,” Dhami said. He assured that strict action will be taken if any violations are found.
AAIB to Investigate
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has been assigned to conduct a thorough investigation into the crash to determine the exact cause and identify any lapses.
CM Holds High-Level Meeting:
Immediately after the incident, CM Dhami convened a virtual high-level meeting with senior state officials to review the situation and coordinate rescue efforts.
Condolences from Leaders:
Expressing her sorrow, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, “Most distressingly, another civil aviation tragedy reported this morning, this time from Uttarakhand, in the Kedarnath-Gaurikund-Guptakashi region. Seven people were on board, including a child and the pilot. While we await the final outcomes of rescue operations, my prayers are with all those affected.”
The tragic incident has cast a shadow over the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, raising fresh concerns over aviation safety in the challenging terrain of the Himalayas. Authorities have assured that services will resume only after comprehensive safety checks are conducted.
