Six Tourists Killed in Uttarakhand Helicopter Crash Near Gangotri Route
A helicopter carrying tourists crashed near Gangnani in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district, killing all six occupants, including five women. The private helicopter was flying from Dehradun towards the Gangotri Dham as part of the Char Dham Yatra circuit. The victims hailed from Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. Visuals showed mangled remains at the crash site. An investigation into the cause of the crash is expected.
Unpacked:
The Char Dham Yatra is a pilgrimage circuit in Uttarakhand, comprising four sacred Hindu shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit annually for religious reasons and spiritual fulfillment, believing that completing the circuit washes away sins and leads to salvation.
As of now, the exact cause of the crash remains unclear. An official investigation has been launched by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and authorities are examining factors such as weather, mechanical failure, and pilot error. The crash site was difficult to access, complicating immediate rescue efforts.
Helicopter crashes in Uttarakhand are not unprecedented, especially during pilgrimage seasons like Char Dham, due to challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and high traffic. Concerns have been raised about aviation safety standards, with recent crashes highlighting persistent risks.
Authorities have airlifted the injured survivor to AIIMS Rishikesh for specialized treatment. Directives have been issued to ensure the best possible medical care and to support the families of the deceased, including providing necessary assistance and compensation.