A tragic incident occurred in Uttarakhand as a helicopter operated by Aryan Aviation crashed in the jungles of Gaurikund while flying from Kedarnath Dham to Guptkashi, resulting in the loss of 7 lives, including the pilot. As a result, helicopter services in the Char Dham region have been suspended temporarily. This decision was made in collaboration between UCADA (Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority) and DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation).

The passengers on board the ill-fated helicopter included Rajveer (the pilot), Vikram Rawat, Vinod, Trishti Singh, Rajkuma, Shraddha, and a 10-year-old girl named Rashi.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his condolences over the tragic incident, highlighting the ongoing relief and rescue efforts being carried out by SDRF, local authorities, and other rescue teams.

The helicopter had departed at 05:17 am for Guptkashi and was returning from Kedarnath with passengers when it deviated from its course due to adverse weather conditions in the Kedarnath valley. Officials confirmed that the severe weather in the area led to the helicopter losing its way.

Following the crash, the Chief Minister directed the Chief Secretary to establish a committee of technical experts to conduct a comprehensive review of safety and technical aspects of helicopter operations and develop new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The aim is to ensure that helicopter services operate with utmost safety, transparency, and adherence to all regulations.

Furthermore, Chief Minister Dhami announced that a high-level committee, previously tasked with investigating past helicopter accidents in the state, will now also probe into the recent crash. This committee will delve into all facets of these incidents, pinpoint any lapses, and recommend stringent actions against those accountable.

Highlighting the significance of helicopter services in Uttarakhand for pilgrimage, disaster response, and emergency management, the Chief Minister underscored that prioritizing safety in these operations is paramount.