Helicopter tragic accident kills seven individuals in India

2025-06-17 08:58:05

(MENAFN) A tragic helicopter accident in Uttarakhand, northern India, claimed the lives of seven individuals—including a two-year-old child—on Sunday morning, according to media sources. This incident marks the fifth helicopter crash in the state since April.

The victims were pilgrims en route to Kedarnath, a highly revered Hindu shrine located in the Himalayas. The crash occurred near Gaurikund, situated approximately 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) above sea level, as reported by regional news outlets.

Local authorities have launched a criminal case against Aryan Aviation, the company operating the helicopter, accusing it of “culpable homicide not amounting to murder.” The police also charged the company with “gross negligence,” highlighting several breaches, including the helicopter’s premature takeoff during conditions of limited visibility.

Indian aviation regulations mandate that each helicopter operator designate a responsible individual to ensure strict adherence to scheduled flight slots—a responsibility typically assigned to the base manager, according to reports.

Following the crash, all helicopter operations in the region have been suspended by authorities pending further investigation.

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