A tragic helicopter crash near Ganganani in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, claimed the lives of at least five people and left two others critically injured on Thursday, according to officials. The chopper, carrying six passengers and a pilot, went down near the Bhagirathi River in the remote border region of the district.
Authorities confirmed that the crash resulted in severe wreckage, as seen in visuals emerging from the site. Rescue operations were swiftly initiated, with teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the district administration reaching the spot promptly to provide emergency assistance.
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Vinay Shankar Pandey, Garhwal Divisional Commissioner, stated that relief teams were immediately mobilized following news of the accident. The injured passengers were rushed to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment, while the identities of the victims are yet to be officially released.
The exact cause of the helicopter crash remains unknown, and a formal investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities and are examining all aspects, including mechanical failure and weather conditions at the time of the crash.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives. He assured the public that the state government is making every effort to support the victims and their families. In a statement, he confirmed that SDRF and district officials have been instructed to prioritize relief and rescue operations and to extend all possible medical and logistical aid.
This tragic event has once again highlighted the challenges of aerial transport in the mountainous terrain of Uttarakhand, where weather changes rapidly and rescue access can be difficult. Further updates are awaited as the investigation progresses.
