A helicopter en route to Kedarnath in Uttarakhand made an emergency landing on a highway due to a technical malfunction. The helicopter's rear section sustained damage, but all five passengers and the pilot are safe. An investigation is underway.
Uttarakhand: A helicopter carrying pilgrims to Kedarnath in Uttarakhand made headlines on Saturday after it was forced to make an emergency landing on a highway due to a technical malfunction. Reassuringly, all five passengers and the pilot on board survived unharmed. However, the helicopter's rear section was damaged during the landing, and it also collided with a vehicle parked on the highway.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred in the Sirsi area of Uttarakhand, from where the helicopter was heading towards Kedarnath. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot encountered a technical issue, prompting an emergency landing on the highway. Reports indicate that people were present nearby during the emergency landing, but no injuries were reported.
Rear Section of Helicopter Damaged
The helicopter's rear section was damaged during the landing; a car parked on the highway also sustained minor damage. No casualties were reported. The Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) has taken the matter seriously and immediately reported it to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Investigation Ordered, DGCA to Inspect
Both UCADA and DGCA are investigating the incident. Officials say the pilot was forced to land on the highway due to the technical malfunction, averting a major accident. All pilgrims aboard the helicopter are safe and were immediately evacuated. A DGCA team will arrive on-site to investigate the wreckage and technical aspects.
The administration and local police immediately initiated relief operations. Highway traffic was briefly halted to ensure the safe relocation of passengers. Eyewitnesses say the pilot executed a skillful landing, saving the passengers' lives.
Series of Accidents During Char Dham Yatra
It is noteworthy that this is the fourth helicopter accident since the start of the Char Dham Yatra. Previously, a helicopter made an emergency landing near the Kedarnath helipad, narrowly avoiding a tragedy involving two doctors and the pilot. These recurring incidents raise serious concerns about passenger safety.
