All seven persons onboard killed in helicopter crash in Kedarnath area of Uttarakhand
A helicopter crashed this morning in the hilly region of Gaurikund Khark in the Kedarnath area of Uttarakhand, resulting in the deaths of seven people, including six pilgrims and the pilot. The helicopter was en route from Kedarnath to Guptkashi. As soon as the incident was reported, rescue teams were dispatched to the site and relief and rescue operations were launched. The SDRF stated that the crashed helicopter was completely burnt and all bodies have been recovered.
District Tourism Officer Rahul Choubey said that due to bad weather, the helicopter suddenly collided with a tree, causing this accident.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered suspension of helicopter services for two days. Expressing deep sorrow over this tragic accident, he said, safety of the passengers is top priority, and the helicopter services will be resumed after due investigation.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau will investigate the crash. Directorate General of Civil Aviation said, the helicopter took off from Kedarnath this morning for Guptkashi, and crashed near Gaurikund. As a precautionary measure, DGCA has already reduced the frequency of helicopter operations to Char Dham. It is carrying out the enhanced surveillance and reviewing the operation for any further action.
