What Caused the Tragic Helicopter Crash in Uttarakhand?

Synopsis
A tragic helicopter crash in Uttarakhand has claimed the lives of six tourists, igniting grief and prompting investigations. What led to this devastating incident? This article covers the details, victims, and the response of authorities.
Key Takeaways
- Six tourists tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash.
- The victims included five women from various states.
- The incident occurred near Gangnani, Uttarkashi.
- Rescue operations were promptly initiated.
- The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
Dehradun, May 8 (NationPress) A devastating helicopter crash occurred near Gangnani in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi, resulting in the immediate fatalities of six tourists, among whom five were women, on Thursday. The victims have been identified as Kala Soni, Vijaya Reddy, and Ruchi Aggarwal from Mumbai, Radha Aggarwal from Uttar Pradesh, Vedavati Kumari from Andhra Pradesh, and Robin Singh from Gujarat.
The sole survivor, Bhaskar from Andhra Pradesh, was injured in the crash. The incident took place around 9 a.m. when the helicopter, operated by a private company, was en route from Dehradun's Sahastradhara to Harshil.
Upon learning about the accident, local residents, alongside the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Quick Response Teams (QRTs), and 108 ambulance services, quickly arrived at the scene.
Two police teams, led by officers Naveen Kumar from Bhatwadi and Pushar Jeena from Ujeli, also reached the location. The SDRF team discovered the helicopter in a gorge approximately 200-250 meters deep, prompting the launch of a rescue operation.
The cause of this accident remains under investigation. Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his sorrow over the tragic loss of life. He offered prayers for the victims' souls and strength for their grieving families.
In a statement on the social media platform X, he noted: "I received reports of casualties in a helicopter crash near Gangnani, Uttarkashi. Teams from SDRF and the district administration have promptly reached the site for rescue and relief operations."
He added, "May God grant peace to the departed souls and fortitude to the families during this unimaginable grief. I've instructed the administration to ensure all possible assistance for the injured and to investigate the incident thoroughly. I am in constant communication with officials to monitor the situation closely," his post stated.