In a devastating incident during the Char Dham Yatra, a helicopter heading from Kedarnath to Phata crashed in the Gaurikund region of Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand. The Kedarnath helicopter crash occurred early Sunday morning around 5:30 AM and claimed the lives of all seven people on board, including a 23-month-old infant.
Helicopter Crash in Gaurikund Leaves Nation Shocked
According to initial reports, the helicopter belonged to Aryan Aviation. Officials confirmed that bad weather was the likely cause of the crash. The helicopter went down in a forested area above Gaurimai Khark near Gaurikund. Women grazing livestock nearby reportedly witnessed the crash and raised the alarm.
The deceased include a couple and their child from Maharashtra — Rajkumar Jaiswal, Shraddha Jaiswal, and baby Kashi Jaiswal. Other victims include Tushtee Singh, locals Vinod Negi, Vikram Singh Rawat (a BKTDC employee), and pilot Captain Rajeev.
Official Confirmation and Rescue Efforts Underway
District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar and helicopter nodal officer Rahul Chaubey confirmed the crash. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams were promptly dispatched to the crash site.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. In a post on social media platform X, he said, “Received extremely saddening news of a helicopter crash in Rudraprayag district. Rescue teams are engaged in relief efforts. Prayers for the safety of all Char Dham pilgrims.”
Earlier Helicopter Incidents in Uttarakhand Raise Safety Concerns
This is not the first helicopter-related accident in the region. On 7th June 2025, a Crystal Company helicopter had to make an emergency landing on the Rudraprayag-Gaurikund highway after developing a technical snag. While passengers escaped unharmed, the pilot suffered injuries and the helicopter’s tail damaged a parked car and a shop.
Earlier, on 8th May 2025, a helicopter operated by AeroTrans Company crashed near Ganganani on the Gangotri Highway. The accident killed six passengers and the pilot, while one survivor was airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh.
These repeated incidents highlight growing concerns about helicopter safety during the high-altitude Char Dham Yatra season, especially amid unpredictable Himalayan weather.
Condolences and Investigation Underway
Officials are investigating the Kedarnath helicopter crash to determine exact causes. All victims’ bodies were reportedly badly charred. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Uttarakhand state aviation authorities are coordinating the inquiry.
As the nation mourns this heartbreaking loss, it raises serious questions about flight safety protocols in treacherous mountain zones.
Conclusion
The Kedarnath helicopter crash is a grim reminder of the high risks involved in mountain aviation. With multiple helicopter mishaps reported in recent months, aviation safety norms for the Char Dham Yatra must be strengthened urgently to prevent further loss of life.
