What Caused the Helicopter Crash Near Uttarakhand's Gangnani?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Tragedy struck near Gangnani in Uttarkhand as a helicopter crash claimed the lives of five tourists and left two injured. This incident, occurring during a routine flight, has raised questions about safety protocols and the investigation into the tragic event.
Key Takeaways
- Five tourists died in the helicopter crash.
- Two others injured and receiving medical assistance.
- Helicopter was travelling from Dehradun to Harshil.
- Investigation to determine the cause of the crash is underway.
- Emergency teams have been deployed for rescue operations.
Dehradun, May 8 (NationPress) Five tourists lost their lives instantly and two others sustained injuries when a helicopter, carrying them, crashed in the vicinity of Gangnani in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand on Thursday.
The tragic event took place around 9 a.m. when the helicopter, owned by a private company, was en route from Sahastradhara in Dehradun to Harshil.
There were seven individuals aboard the helicopter, including passengers Vinit Gupta, Arvind Agarwal, Vipin Agarwal, Pinki Agarwal, Rashmi, Kishore Jadhav, and pilot Robin Singh.
Among the passengers, four were from Mumbai while the remaining two hailed from Andhra Pradesh.
Upon receiving news of the accident, locals, along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Quick Response Teams (QRTs), and 108 ambulance units rushed to the site.
Two police units, led by officers Naveen Kumar from Bhatwadi and Pushar Jeena from Ujeli, also arrived promptly.
The SDRF team located the helicopter in a gorge about 200-250 metres deep, leading to the initiation of the rescue operation. The reason behind the crash is still under investigation.
Reacting to the unfortunate incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his sorrow over the loss of life. He also offered prayers for the peace of the departed souls and strength to the grieving families to cope with their immense loss. Moreover, he directed the administration to extend every possible assistance to the wounded and conduct a thorough inquiry into the mishap.
In a message posted on the social media platform X, he stated: "I have received news of casualties from a helicopter crash near Gangani in Uttarkashi. SDRF and district administration teams have swiftly reached the site for relief and rescue operations."
"May God grant peace to those who have passed and strength to the families enduring this profound grief. I have instructed the administration to provide all necessary help to the injured and to investigate the incident. I am maintaining constant communication with officials and monitoring the situation closely," his statement continued.
Point of View
It is vital to provide an unbiased perspective on this tragic incident. We acknowledge the profound impact this has on the families affected and the community at large. Our commitment is to report with integrity while ensuring that the facts are presented clearly and compassionately.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the helicopter crash near Gangnani?
The cause of the helicopter crash is currently under investigation by authorities.
How many people were on board the helicopter?
There were seven individuals on board, including passengers and the pilot.
What assistance is being provided to the injured?
The administration has been instructed to provide all necessary support and aid to the injured victims.
What actions have been taken by local authorities?
Local authorities, including the State Disaster Response Force and police teams, have been dispatched to the crash site for rescue and relief operations.
Who expressed condolences regarding the incident?
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his condolences and support for the bereaved families.
