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Key Points

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami has introduced strict safety protocols for helicopter operations following the Gaurikund crash. A technical committee will investigate past accidents and enforce new SOPs. Rescue teams are working at the crash site, which involved seven passengers. Dhami emphasized the critical role of helicopters in pilgrimage and emergency services.

Key Points: Uttarakhand CM Dhami Orders Strict Helicopter Safety Rules After Gaurikund Crash

  • CM Dhami mandates technical checks and weather updates for flights
  • Committee to investigate past helicopter accidents
  • Experts to draft SOP for transparent operations
  • Rescue teams deployed after Gaurikund crash
2 min read

Uttarakhand CM Dhami issues strict instructions regarding helicopter operations in State

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami enforces new SOPs for helicopter operations in Uttarakhand after Gaurikund crash, prioritizing passenger safety and accountability.

"Safety needs to be given top priority for pilgrimage and emergency services - CM Pushkar Singh Dhami"

Dehradun, June 15

Following Sunday morning's helicopter crash in Uttarakhand's Gaurikund, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has issued strict instructions regarding helicopter operations in the state.

The Chief Minister announced a strict Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for helicopter services operations in the state. As per the SOP, a complete check of technical conditions of the helicopters and accurate weather information before flights should be made mandatory, an official release from the chief minister's office said today.

Dhami has also instructed the Chief Secretary to constitute a committee of technical experts to prepare the SOP after a thorough review of all technical and safety aspects of the helicopter operations. The committee shall also ensure the safe and transparent operation of helicopter services as per the SOP.

The CM has also directed the committee to investigate the previous helicopter accidents as well as the Gaurikund helicopter crash in the state. Furthermore, the committee will also identify the guilty people or institutions behind the accidents, if any and also recommend strict action against them.

"The importance of the helicopter services in the state is immense for pilgrimage, disaster management and emergency services, hence safety needs to be given a top priority in this," the Chief Minister said.

Earlier in the day, the CM in a social media post on X stated "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."

He said that State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel, local administration, and other rescue teams were engaged in the relief and rescue operations.

Dhami further said that his prayers are for the safety of all travellers."I pray to Baba Kedar for the safety of all the travellers," the post further read.

A helicopter carrying seven people on board to Gaurikund on its way from Kedarnath Dham to Guptkashi crashed early this morning. The passengers included five adults, one child, and the pilot.

Inspector General (Garhwal Range) Rajiv Swaroop said that the site of the crash was a very remote area.

"The Police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have rushed to the spot, he said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Good move by CM Dhami! Helicopter safety in hilly areas can't be compromised. After all, these are not just joyrides but essential services for pilgrims and emergencies. Hope the SOP includes proper maintenance checks and pilot training standards. 🙏
P
Priya M.
This tragedy could have been avoided. Many helicopter operators in Uttarakhand take safety lightly because pilgrims are desperate to reach Kedarnath. Government should fix maximum fares too - some operators charge ₹8000 for 10 minute flights! Safety first, profits later.
A
Amit S.
Why wait for accidents to happen? The government should have regular safety audits of all aviation services in hilly states. My prayers with the victims' families. Uttarakhand needs better infrastructure - maybe ropeways would be safer than so many helicopters?
N
Neha T.
As someone who took a helicopter to Kedarnath last year, I must say the landing areas are very risky. Pilots have to maneuver between mountains with strong winds. The government should invest in better helipads with modern navigation systems. Jai Baba Kedar!
V
Vikram J.
While the CM's response is appreciated, why wasn't this done after the 2021 crash? We need permanent solutions, not reactive measures after every tragedy. The committee should include IAF experts and not just bureaucrats. Safety protocols must be military-grade for civilian operations too.
S
Sunita R.
Heartbreaking news 😢 These helicopters are lifelines for elderly pilgrims who can't trek. The government should make it mandatory for all operators to have black boxes and proper insurance coverage. Also need emergency medical teams at all helipads. Om Namah Shivay!

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