In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has shaken the nation, a helicopter en route from Kedarnath to Guptkashi crashed near Gaurikund in Uttarakhand on June 15, 2025. The accident claimed the lives of all seven passengers on board, including two innocent children. This marks the fifth such incident during the ongoing Char Dham Yatra that began on April 30.
What Happened?
The ill-fated chopper, operated by Aryan Aviation, went down in the dense forests of Gaurikund under treacherous weather conditions, including low visibility and heavy clouds. The victims included three members of a family from Yavatmal, Maharashtra — among them, a 10-year-old girl and a 2-year-old infant.
Possible Cause of Crash
While official confirmation is pending, early reports suggest a combination of poor weather and technical malfunction may have led to the crash. Investigators are currently piecing together data from the site to understand what went wrong.
Suspension of Helicopter Services
Following this devastating incident, the Uttarakhand government has suspended all helicopter services in the Char Dham region until further notice. Safety is being prioritized as officials move to prevent future tragedies.
Government Response
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered the creation of a high-level committee of aviation and weather experts to review current air safety protocols. The committee is tasked with drafting new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure safe helicopter travel in the Himalayan region.
A Nation in Mourning
This disaster comes as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in high-altitude aviation, especially during unpredictable monsoon conditions. The entire nation mourns the loss of lives and extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.