Chamoli, 30 October (H.S.): A helicopter returning from Badrinath Dham on Friday was reported missing in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, triggering an emergency response by the local administration. The helicopter’s location could not initially be traced along the route between Badrinath Dham and Joshimath.

According to the State Emergency Operations Centre, the administration received information that the helicopter had gone missing. Authorities immediately launched a search and rescue operation, with teams from the district administration and the helicopter operator working to establish its location.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said in a post on X that he had received unfortunate reports of a helicopter crash near Chai village in Joshimath. He said a joint rescue operation was being carried out by the district administration, the Disaster Management Department and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).

“I am personally monitoring the entire situation continuously. Instructions have been issued to immediately airlift those seriously injured and transport them to a higher medical facility for better treatment. I pray to God for the safety and well-being of all those on board,”CM Dhami said.

Preliminary information suggested that six people, including passengers and the pilot, were aboard the helicopter. However, conflicting reports had emerged regarding the exact number of passengers.

Official confirmation regarding the helicopter’s condition and the safety of those on board was awaited.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar