Tragedy as Helicopter Carrying Pilgrims Crashes in India – Six Confirmed D3ad

 

In a tragic incident, six people have lost their lives after a helicopter carrying Hindu pilgrims crashed into a mountainside in India.

The helicopter was flying along the Gangotri route in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, when it went down in a forested area near Gangnani on the morning of Thursday, May 8.

It has now been confirmed that all six passengers, including the pilot, Captain Robin Singh, sadly died in the crash. One person was also reported injured.

According to eyewitnesses, the helicopter collided with a tree before crashing. Locals nearby rushed to the scene, searching through the wreckage to help any possible survivors, even before rescue teams could get there due to the challenging terrain.

The chopper, operated by Aero Trans Service Pvt, had taken off from Sahastradhara helipad and was heading to Kharsali. On board were four men, two women, and the pilot—all believed to be pilgrims on their way to Char Dham, one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage circuits.

The crash occurred around 8:40am, near the Ganganani Nagraja Temple.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami responded to the tragedy with a heartfelt statement on social media platform X:

"Very sad news has been received about some people getting injured in a helicopter crash near Gangaani in Uttarkashi. SDRF and district administration teams have immediately reached the spot for relief and rescue work."

He added:

"May God grant peace to the souls of those who died in the accident and give strength to the bereaved families to bear this immense loss.
I have instructed the administration to provide all possible help to the injured and investigate the accident. I am constantly in touch with the officials in this regard and every situation is being monitored."

In a follow-up post, the Chief Minister emphasized the state’s commitment to ensuring safe pilgrimages:

"It is our top priority to make the journey of every devotee coming for Chardham Yatra safe, smooth and memorable.
We are improving the arrangements related to the Yatra every year, this is the reason why the number of devotees is setting new records every year."

At this time, the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation. The District Magistrate of Uttarkashi is reportedly on the way to the crash site to assess the situation further.