Major Helicopter Crash in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi
A major helicopter accident has occurred in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, resulting in five fatalities and two serious injuries. The helicopter, carrying pilgrims, crashed near Gangnani after taking off from Dehradun. This tragedy has cast a pall of sorrow over the state, and the administration is actively engaged in rescue operations.
Details of the Helicopter Crash
A helicopter carrying pilgrims crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi this morning. The helicopter, en route from Dehradun to Nag Mandir, beyond Gangnani, crashed due to suspected technical malfunction or other unforeseen circumstances.
Seven people were onboard – one pilot and six passengers. Reports indicate that the pilot and five passengers died, while two passengers sustained critical injuries. The injured have been immediately transported to a hospital for treatment.
Rescue Operations Underway
Upon receiving news of the accident, the local administration and disaster management teams swiftly responded. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), 108 ambulances, the Bhatwari Tehsildar, the Bhatwari BDO, and other government officials were dispatched to the site. Superintendent of Police Sarita Dobal personally supervised the rescue operation at the scene. Rescue efforts are underway, and the identification of the deceased is in progress. The relief team is striving to provide prompt assistance to the injured.
Chief Minister Expresses Grief
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the accident. Through social media, he conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims, assuring them of the state government's support during this difficult time. CM Dhami instructed officials to prioritize rescue and relief efforts, promising all possible assistance to the injured and initiating an investigation into the cause of the crash. In a Facebook post, he stated, "I am in constant contact with the officials and closely monitoring the situation."
Information Regarding the Injured and Deceased
Among the five deceased, all were women. The two injured are a male pilot and a male passenger. While identification is ongoing, it's believed that all passengers were from the state of Karnataka. Rescue and relief operations continue, and further information regarding the passengers is expected soon.
