Helicopter Crash Near Kedarnath: Five Pilgrims Killed
Kedarnath Helicopter Crash: A tragic accident occurred in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand. A helicopter returning from Kedarnath crashed between Gaurikund and Sonprayag, resulting in the death of five pilgrims. Six people were onboard at the time of the accident. Adverse weather conditions are suspected to be the cause. NDRF and SDRF teams are engaged in rescue operations.
Major Accident During Kedarnath Yatra
Another tragic incident has occurred during the Uttarakhand pilgrimage season. A helicopter carrying pilgrims from Kedarnath to the Guptkashi base crashed between Gaurikund and Sonprayag in Rudraprayag district. Six people were onboard, five of whom perished. The area is shrouded in grief following the accident.
Aryan Aviation Helicopter Involved in the Accident
The helicopter belonged to Aryan Aviation, and was returning from Kedarnath to Guptkashi. Rahul Chaubey, the District Tourism Development Officer and nodal officer for helicopter services, stated that the helicopter went missing around 5:30 AM on Sunday. Following initial reports, a search operation was launched by the administration, confirming the helicopter crash.
Weather Cited as Cause of Accident
Preliminary investigations suggest that sudden deterioration of weather in the valley was the primary cause of the accident. The helicopter crashed while attempting to exit the valley. Dense fog and b winds hampered visibility for the pilot at the time of the accident.
Information Received Due to Local Vigilance
Some Nepali women were cutting grass in Gauri Mai Khark, a meadow above Gaurikund. They heard the helicopter crash into the forest and immediately informed the local administration. Subsequently, SDRF, NDRF, police, and other rescue teams were dispatched to the site.
Identification of Victims and Relief Efforts
According to available information, six people, including the pilot, were onboard the helicopter. Five passengers, including a newborn infant, have been confirmed dead. The identification of the deceased is underway. There is no official confirmation yet regarding the pilot's condition. Relief and rescue operations are ongoing, with locals assisting the administration.
Questions Raised Regarding Safety
This is the third major helicopter incident in the Kedarnath valley during this pilgrimage season. Two previous incidents required emergency landings. Similar helicopter-related incidents have also occurred in Badrinath and Gangotri. This raises concerns about the safety of helicopter services and the permission granted for flights during the monsoon season.
Administration's Response
Uttarakhand's ADG Law and Order, Dr. V. Murugesan, confirmed that the missing helicopter crashed near Gaurikund. He stated that six people were onboard and that a detailed investigation is underway. The administration has stated that a high-level team will be formed to investigate the incident and review the regulations governing helicopter service operations.
