Concerns arise regarding neglect of safety norms in chopper operations for Char Dham Yatra
By Arun Pratap Singh
Dehradun, 8 May: The helicopter crash in Uttarkashi district had a ripple effect on the Kedarnath heli-services, which were temporarily halted for security reasons. Following the tragic accident in Gangani, the authorities suspended chopper operations for an hour, resulting in huge inconvenience to pilgrims. The service was later resumed, but many travellers faced difficulties during the disruption.
It may be recalled that around 8:30 a.m., a helicopter crashed near Gangani in district Uttarkashi, resulting in the loss of six lives and leaving one person seriously injured. In the aftermath, operations at the Kedarnath heli- service were paused for approximately an hour. Some pilgrims opted to begin their journey to Kedarnath Dham on foot due to the delay. Helicopters operated by nine companies ferry passengers from Guptkashi, Sirsi, and Phata to Kedarnath. In addition, there is a chopper service also from Dehradun to Kedarnath and in addition, chartered heli-flights also operate for Kedarnath.
It may recalled that today’s chopper crash is not the first to crash during Char Dham Yatra operations. Accidents occur almost every year but are soon forgotten. With the annual Char Dham Yatra underway, serious concerns are now being raised about the safety of helicopter services operating in the treacherous terrain of Kedarnath, particularly in the wake of today’s accident in Gangnani in district Uttarakashi. The frequency of chopper mishaps in the region over the years has points toward an urgent need for stricter regulation and adherence to safety norms. The most recent tragedy in Kedar Valley had occurred in October 2022, when a chopper carrying pilgrims crashed near Garudchatti, claiming seven lives. In 2013, a Mi-17 rescue helicopter also crashed during post-flood operations, killing all onboard.
The unpredictable and often hostile weather in the higher Himalayas, characterised by sudden fog, gusty winds, and low visibility, makes flying particularly challenging and often risky. Despite these conditions, several private operators are alleged to cut corners in safety checks and pilot rest regulations to meet the high demand during the yatra season. They often ignore weather conditions and also the norms regarding weight capacity applicable at high altitudes.
Aviation experts have been repeatedly urging the authorities to tighten oversight and ensure only well-maintained aircraft with experienced pilots operate in this sensitive zone. Without robust safety protocols and real-time weather monitoring systems, the convenience of aerial access to Kedarnath could become a recurring danger. The lives of thousands of pilgrims depend not only on divine blessings but also on human diligence and accountability.
