Tragedy Near Kedarnath | Helicopter Crash Claims Seven Lives
The helicopter, operated by a private aviation company, took off from Phata helipad around 11:45 AM. Moments later,
Mun 
Tragedy Near Kedarnath: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand | June 15, 2025 —
In a devastating incident, a helicopter carrying pilgrims to the sacred Kedarnath shrine crashed today near Garudchatti, a hilly region just a few kilometers from the temple. All seven people on board, including the pilot and six pilgrims, have been confirmed dead.
🔍 What Happened?
The helicopter, operated by a private aviation company, took off from Phata helipad around 11:45 AM. Moments later, it lost contact with ground control. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft going down amid dense fog and difficult terrain.
According to preliminary reports, bad weather and low visibility are believed to have caused the crash, although a detailed probe has been initiated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Department.
🛐 Victims Identified
- 1 Pilot (name yet to be confirmed)
- 6 Pilgrims from Gujarat and Maharashtra (identities being verified)
Their bodies have been recovered and shifted to the base camp. Officials have arranged for immediate identification and transportation of the deceased.
🗣️ Official Statements
Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, expressed deep sorrow and has ordered a high-level inquiry. He also directed the district administration to provide all necessary support to the victims' families.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy during the holy Char Dham Yatra. We are in constant touch with the aviation authorities and will ensure accountability,” said CM Dhami.
⚠️ Aviation Safety Under Scrutiny
This is not the first helicopter mishap in the treacherous terrain of Kedarnath. Experts have long called for stricter guidelines and upgraded navigation systems for chopper services in the region.
DGCA officials have grounded similar flights in the area pending weather reviews and technical checks.
📌 About Kedarnath
Kedarnath is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. Due to its high altitude (3,583 meters) and rugged terrain, helicopter services are frequently used by elderly and differently-abled pilgrims.
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