Kedarnath helicopter crash: A helicopter carrying Kedarnath pilgrims from Phata has reportedly crashed in Uttarakhand. At least seven people are feared dead. The administration team has left for the spot for relief and rescue work. The reason of the crash is yet to be ascertained.
According to reports, the pilot also lost his life in the crash.
"7 people died in the crash. The incident took place around 11:40am. The chopper took place from Kedarnath and was heading towards Guptkashi. The cause of the accident will be known after a proper investigation," C Ravi Shankar, CEO, Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority said.
As per initial reports, the chopper belonging to a private operator crashed soon after takeoff. Television images showed burning mangled remains of the chopper in hilly terrain and low clouds.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed anguish over the accident. "Anguished by the helicopter crash in Uttarakhand. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with the bereaved families," he tweeted.
Home Minister Amit Shah also reacted to this incident. "The incident of the crash of the helicopter carrying the pilgrims in Kedarnath is very sad. I express my condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives in this accident. May God give them the strength to bear this grief."
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also said the SDRF and district administration teams have reached the spot for relief and rescue work. "Very sad news has been received of some casualties in the unfortunate helicopter crash at Garuda Chatti near Kedarnath. SDRF and district administration teams have reached the spot for relief and rescue work. A detailed inquiry has been ordered into this tragic incident," Dhami tweeted.
Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia expressed anguish over the incident and said that he constantly monitoring the situation.
Just 10 days ago, a Cheetah helicopter of the Indian Army had crashed in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh killing one of the two pilots onboard, a defence spokesperson said. The two pilots on board were rushed to the nearest military hospital, he said.
One of the pilots who was critically wounded succumbed to the injuries during treatment, he added. The cause of the crash was not immediately known, he said.
