Pilgrims planning to undertake the Char Dham Yatra in 2025 have received positive news: the DGCA has approved the resumption of helicopter services. This decision follows a period of reduced monsoon activity and improved weather conditions. A review meeting, chaired by the Minister of Civil Aviation, focused on ensuring the safety and security of the pilgrimage.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has instructed the DGCA to implement strict safety protocols, making it clear that any compromise on safety will not be tolerated. The ministry has been working in collaboration with the Uttarakhand government, including the Chief Minister, to streamline operations. This involved review meetings in both Dehradun and Delhi to improve coordination between relevant agencies.
The DGCA has been actively monitoring and assessing all aspects of helicopter operations. This included evaluating helipads, helicopters, and the preparedness of operators from September 13 to 16. As a result of these evaluations, the DGCA has granted permission for the resumption of helicopter services. The DGCA has also provided all operators and pilots with essential safety information and guidelines, particularly those related to pilgrimage operations.
The Ministry underscores the significance of helicopter services in facilitating access to the high-altitude pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The DGCA will be closely overseeing the helicopter operations to ensure they are safe and efficient. This is particularly important following incidents in May-June that raised questions about helicopter safety. Various committees have provided recommendations to enhance safety in helicopter operations.
Helicopter Services Details:
Charter services will operate from Sahastradhara, Dehradun, to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Shuttle services will be available from the Guptkashi, Phata, and Sitapur clusters to the Shri Kedarnath Ji Helipad.
Six helicopter operators will provide shuttle services from the Guptkashi, Phata, and Sitapur clusters, and seven operators will offer charter flights from Dehradun (Sahastradhara).
Safety briefings will be provided to all passengers before their flights, covering essential information such as seatbelt use, safe boarding and disembarking procedures, and emergency protocols.