The AIIMS heli ambulance in Kedarnath, once considered a lifeline for emergency healthcare in remote areas, now lies abandoned and damaged near the helipad, raising serious questions over system accountability. The helicopter has remained in a wrecked condition since its crash on May 17, 2025.
The AIIMS heli ambulance had met with an accident during a hard landing while it had gone to airlift a female patient. Since then, the crucial aero-medical service has remained non-functional, severely impacting emergency response in Uttarakhand’s mountainous regions.
Despite contractual obligations requiring the concerned agency to replace the damaged helicopter within three days, no replacement has been provided even after nearly a year. Moreover, the damaged AIIMS heli ambulance has not been removed from the site, highlighting administrative negligence and delays.
The service, which was launched after significant delay, had initially raised hopes for improved healthcare access in remote districts like Uttarkashi and Chamoli. It had reportedly played a key role in saving lives, including those of pregnant women in difficult terrains.
The heli ambulance service was first announced on September 20, 2022, by then Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. It was later virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 29, 2024. However, within just seven months of operation, the service came to a halt following the accident.
The AIIMS heli ambulance was also projected as a key support system during the Char Dham Yatra, ensuring quick medical assistance to pilgrims. However, it failed to function effectively even for a full travel season.
Officials from AIIMS stated that efforts are ongoing to restart the service. PRO Dr. Sriloy Mohanty said that coordination with the state government is being carried out to resume heli ambulance operations for transporting critically ill and injured patients.
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The continued inaction over the damaged AIIMS heli ambulance has raised concerns about emergency preparedness and healthcare infrastructure in Uttarakhand’s high-altitude regions.
