Tragic Helicopter Crash Near Gaurikund Sparks Urgent NDRF, SDRF Rescue Operation

Rudraprayag, June 15, 2025 – In a deeply unfortunate incident, a helicopter en route from the sacred town of Kedarnath crashed near Gaurikund in Uttarakhand on Saturday morning, prompting an immediate and large-scale rescue response from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The crash, which occurred in a high-altitude, difficult terrain area, has raised serious concerns about aviation safety in the mountainous pilgrimage region.

Kedarnath Helicopter Crash: Emergency Forces on High Alert

The Kedarnath helicopter crash was reported at approximately 9:30 AM, when the aircraft lost communication with ground control shortly after takeoff. It was later confirmed that the chopper had gone down near the densely forested Gaurikund region. Within minutes, NDRF and SDRF teams were dispatched from nearby locations to carry out rescue and recovery operations under extremely challenging conditions.

Eyewitnesses from surrounding areas reported hearing a loud noise, followed by smoke and visible debris in the forested valley. “It was a horrifying sound. We rushed toward the site but couldn’t get far due to the steep terrain,” said a local shopkeeper from Sonprayag.

Rescue Efforts Underway After Kedarnath Helicopter Crash

According to early reports, the helicopter was carrying multiple passengers, possibly pilgrims returning from Kedarnath Dham. The NDRF and SDRF teams have been working tirelessly since the crash site was located. Air surveillance has also been deployed to assist ground teams in pinpointing the exact location and coordinating medical evacuations.

Officials have yet to release the identities of the passengers or confirm the casualty figures. However, sources indicate that serious injuries are likely, and fatalities cannot be ruled out. Specialized mountaineering units and medics have been flown in to aid the ongoing efforts.

Aviation Safety Concerns Resurface After Kedarnath Helicopter Crash

This tragic Kedarnath helicopter crash has once again sparked concerns about the safety of helicopter services operating in the high-altitude zones of Uttarakhand, especially during the peak Char Dham Yatra season. With a high volume of daily flights ferrying pilgrims between helipads and shrines, experts are calling for a review of operational protocols and better real-time weather monitoring systems.

Aviation authorities are expected to launch a detailed investigation into the possible technical or weather-related causes of the crash.

Government’s Response to Kedarnath Helicopter Crash

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed deep concern and is reportedly monitoring the situation closely. “We are committed to providing all necessary support for the rescue and relief operations. Our prayers are with the families of those affected,” he said in a statement.

Union Civil Aviation officials have also taken cognizance of the Kedarnath helicopter crash, and a probe team is expected to reach the site within 24 hours to assess the black box and technical records of the aircraft involved.

Kedarnath Helicopter Crash: A Wake-Up Call for Pilgrimage Safety

The incident comes as a grim reminder of past helicopter accidents in the region, which often face adverse flying conditions due to sudden weather changes, narrow valleys, and strong wind currents. With millions of devotees visiting Kedarnath each year, enhanced aviation safety measures and better infrastructure are urgently needed.

Authorities are urging patience and asking the public not to spread rumors until official confirmation is released regarding casualties and causes.