5 chopper incidents since Kedarnath reopening: Uttarakhand CM calls for strict SOPs

Dehradun: In the wake of Sunday morning’s fatal helicopter crash near Gaurikund in Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has issued firm directives aimed at overhauling aviation safety protocols in the state.

This is the fifth such helicopter-related incident since the opening of the Kedarnath temple on 2 May 2025.

A new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for helicopter operations is to be instituted, mandating comprehensive technical checks of helicopters and real-time weather assessments before flights. This SOP will apply across all chopper services in Uttarakhand, a state heavily reliant on aerial transport for pilgrimage, emergency services, and disaster management.

An official statement from the Chief Minister’s Office stated that a technical committee will be constituted to draft the SOP after a detailed review of all safety and operational factors. The committee, comprised of aviation experts, will also oversee the safe and transparent execution of these protocols.

Importantly, the CM has instructed the committee to investigate not just the Gaurikund crash, but all previous helicopter accidents in the state. The committee has been empowered to identify responsible individuals or institutions and recommend strict punitive measures.

"The importance of helicopter services in Uttarakhand is immense—for pilgrimage, disaster response, and emergencies. Therefore, safety must be the top priority," said Dhami.

Earlier in the day, the CM posted on X (formerly Twitter), expressing grief over the incident and praying for the safety of all travellers. "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," his post read.

The crash occurred at approximately 5:20 am while an Aryan Aviation helicopter was flying from Kedarnath Dham to Guptkashi. On board were six passengers—five adults and one child—and the pilot. All seven are confirmed dead.

Inspector General (Garhwal Range) Rajiv Swaroop confirmed that the crash site is located in a remote and difficult-to-reach area. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the police have been deployed for rescue and recovery.
(With ANI inputs)