that claimed seven lives. The suspension will remain until safety protocols are thoroughly reviewed and fresh guidelines are issued.

CM Directs Formulation of Strict SOPs
CM Dhami stated that a strict Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) must be developed for helicopter operations in the state. This SOP should include a mandatory check of the helicopter’s technical condition and accurate weather assessment before every flight.

The Chief Minister has instructed the Chief Secretary to form a committee of technical experts. This committee will review all technical and safety aspects of heli operations and prepare the SOP accordingly. It will ensure that helicopter services operate with complete safety, transparency, and adherence to prescribed standards.

Committee to Probe Helicopter Accidents
Additionally, the Chief Minister has directed that the high-level committee already constituted to investigate previous helicopter accidents will also probe Sunday’s crash. This committee will examine every detail of past and current incidents, identify responsible individuals or organizations, and recommend strict action.

CM Dhami emphasized the crucial role of helicopter services in the state, especially for pilgrimage, disaster management, and emergency response, stating that safety will be given utmost priority.

Helicopter Crash Near Kedarnath Shrine
A tragic helicopter crash near Kedarnath shrine early Sunday morning resulted in the death of all seven people on board — six pilgrims and the pilot. The helicopter had taken off from Kedarnath en route to Guptkashi around 5:30 am when it crashed shortly after takeoff.

Rudraprayag District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar confirmed that the crash occurred above the forests of Gaurikund due to poor visibility caused by bad weather. The chopper, operated by Aryan Aviation Pvt Ltd, went down between Gaurikund and Trijuginarayan in the Kedarghati area and caught fire.

Earlier, on May 8, a helicopter en route to Gangotri Dham crashed in Uttarkashi district, killing six people.

On June 7, another helicopter bound for Kedarnath made an emergency landing on a road shortly after takeoff due to a technical fault. The pilot was injured, but all five pilgrims on board were rescued safely.