Helicopter Crashes in Kedarnath During Airlift by MI-17 Chopper

A helicopter that had previously made an emergency landing due to technical issues in May, crashed near the Mandakini River in Lincholi in Kedarnath while being airlifted by an Indian Air Force MI-17 chopper. The incident, captured on camera, resulted in no injuries.

Officials reported that the MI-17 was transporting the defective private helicopter to the Gauchar airstrip for repairs. However, the MI-17 began to lose balance due to the helicopter’s weight and strong winds. The pilot decided to drop the helicopter at a vacant spot near Tharu camp.

The helicopter, which was not carrying any passengers or luggage at the time, had previously been involved in ferrying pilgrims to the Kedarnath temple. A rescue team quickly arrived at the crash site.

In recent weeks, there has been a significant decline in the number of pilgrims visiting Kedarnath due to severe rain-induced damage along the trek route. Landslides and heavy rains have stranded thousands, prompting a large-scale rescue operation supported by the Air Force’s Chinook and MI-17 helicopters, along with private choppers.

Despite the challenges, the Chardham Yatra continues, with over 33 lakh pilgrims visiting the Himalayan temples since the start of the pilgrimage season in May.