Updated: June 13, 2025 | Source: The Quick Update
Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand – In the aftermath of a tragic helicopter crash near Gaurikund, which claimed the lives of seven people including a 23-month-old child, helicopter operations in the Kedarnath valley have been suspended, officials confirmed on Sunday.
The Aryan Aviation chopper, operating a routine shuttle from Kedarnath Dham to Guptkashi, lost contact at approximately 5:20 AM. The aircraft crashed in a densely forested area between Gaurikund and Sonprayag shortly after takeoff, resulting in no survivors.
Services Suspended, Weather and Terrain Cited
UCADA CEO Sonika announced the temporary suspension of all helicopter shuttle services in the region. “Since the rescue operation is underway and considering the weather conditions in the valley, our shuttle services have been closed,” she said, noting that most available choppers are assisting with recovery.
SDRF, NDRF, and local authorities have reached the crash site. The area, described as remote and difficult to access, is posing significant challenges to relief teams, according to Inspector General Rajiv Swaroop.
🛑 CM Dhami Orders SOP Overhaul
Reacting swiftly to the incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials to form a technical committee to revamp helicopter safety protocols in the state.
A new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be introduced to enforce:
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Pre-flight technical inspections
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Real-time weather assessments
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Strict pilot and operator accountability
The Chief Minister emphasized that the committee will also examine past helicopter accidents in Uttarakhand to uncover any recurring safety violations. If negligence is found, disciplinary action will follow.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), CM Dhami wrote:
“Very sad news has been received about a helicopter crash in Rudraprayag district. SDRF, local administration, and other rescue teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why were helicopter services suspended in Kedarnath valley?
Helicopter operations were halted following the crash of an Aryan Aviation chopper, due to safety concerns and ongoing rescue efforts.
Q2: How many people were on board during the Kedarnath helicopter crash?
Seven individuals, including six pilgrims and a child, were onboard. All were declared deceased.
Q3: Where exactly did the helicopter crash occur?
The crash site is located between Gaurikund and Sonprayag, in a forested and remote part of the Rudraprayag district.
Q4: What actions has the Uttarakhand government taken post-crash?
Chief Minister Dhami has directed the formation of a technical committee to update SOPs for helicopter safety and enforce stricter regulations.
Q5: Will helicopter services resume soon in the region?
Services will remain suspended until weather conditions improve and the rescue and review operations are completed.
Q6: What will the new SOPs include?
The SOPs will mandate pre-flight technical checks, accurate weather briefings, and operator accountability, among other safety measures.
