Uttarakhand Helicopter Missing: Harish Rawat Demands Stricter Aviation Safety
Six people are missing after a helicopter disappeared in Chamoli, Uttarakhand. Former CM Harish Rawat calls for stricter aviation safety.
A wave of anxiety has gripped Uttarakhand after a missing helicopter in Uttarakhand, carrying six people, vanished while flying from Badrinath to Dehradun. The aircraft, which had five passengers and a pilot on board, disappeared in the rugged terrain of the Chamoli district, sparking an urgent search and rescue operation.
Harish Rawat Expresses Grave Concern
Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and Congress leader Harish Rawat has reacted strongly to the incident, emphasizing that passenger safety must be the top priority for air services. While official confirmation of casualties is still awaited as the aircraft remains missing, Rawat extended his heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
"It is very tragic. Our condolences go out to the families who have lost their loved ones. Along with making our air services competitive, we must also ensure they are safe," Rawat stated.
Details of the Disappearance
The helicopter was reportedly operated by a company called Charlie X-Ray. According to reports, the aircraft lost contact with ground control near Hathi Parvat (Hathi Pahad), located close to Joshimath. Following the loss of communication, the district administration immediately mobilized an aerial search team, deploying another helicopter to scan the mountainous region for any signs of the missing aircraft.
Severe Weather Complicating Search Efforts
The disappearance comes at a time when Uttarakhand is battling volatile weather conditions. The state has witnessed significant rainfall and snowfall, which may be hindering search operations.
Snowfall at Kedarnath Dham
In a striking turn of weather, Kedarnath Dham experienced its first heavy snowfall of the season. Continuous snow since Thursday, October 29, has blanketed the surrounding hills in thick white, causing temperatures to plummet in the region.
Meteorological Warnings
Dr CS Tomar, Director of the Meteorological Centre in Dehradun, has warned that the unstable weather is likely to persist. Key highlights from the weather report include:
- Recent Activity: Heavy rainfall was recorded across eight to nine locations on October 29, with Uttarkashi, Tehri, and Haridwar being the hardest hit.
- Immediate Forecast: Rainfall activity was expected to continue through Friday, particularly in the Kumaon region.
- Long-term Outlook: Light to very light rain is predicted for October 31, and potentially into November 1 and 2, specifically in the northern hilly districts.
Administration on High Alert
Given the perilous weather forecasts and the ongoing search for the missing helicopter, district administrations across the state have been placed on high alert. Authorities are working to ensure the safety of commuters and pilgrims navigating the treacherous hilly terrain during this period of adverse weather.