Taking serious note of recurring helicopter accidents in Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered the formation of a strict Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for helicopter services in the state. The move comes in the wake of the tragic crash near Gaurikund that claimed seven lives.
The Chief Minister directed the Chief Secretary to constitute a technical expert committee to comprehensively review all safety and technical aspects of helicopter operations. The committee will draft a robust SOP ensuring mandatory pre-flight technical inspections and precise weather assessments.
CM Dhami emphasized that helicopter services are vital for pilgrimage, disaster management, and emergency operations in the state, and thus, safety must be the top priority. He further stated that the high-level committee already formed to investigate past helicopter crashes will also probe Sunday’s Gaurikund incident. The panel will thoroughly examine the causes and recommend strict action against any individuals or agencies found negligent.
The Chief Minister made it clear that future helicopter operations must be safe, transparent, and fully compliant with established standards, and that the government will not tolerate any compromise on safety.
