New Delhi: A helicopter ferrying pilgrims to the Vaishno Devi temple crashed near Katra in Jammu and Kashmir today.
Initial reports suggested that at lest seven people including the lady pilot lost their lives in the incident.
The incident took place when the chopper was going to Sanjhichat from Katra. The helicopter caught fire soon after take off.
Police said that apparently bad weather is the reason of the crash. However, an investigation has been ordered started in the matter.
Earlier in the morning, PTI reported that a thick layer of fog engulfed Kashmir leading to poor visibility and affected air and road traffic.
Many parts of the Valley witnessed dense fog in the morning. It led to traffic jam as motorists drove cautiously due to poor visibility.
The fog affected air traffic as flights to Srinagar Airport were either cancelled or delayed.
The crashed helicopter belonged to Himalayan Heli service company.
Himalayan Heli Services was last year awarded contract for carrying out helicopter operations between Katra and Sanjichhat in Reasi district for the devotees who come to offer obeisance at Vaishno Devi Shrine.
