Helicopter services for the Kedarnath Dham Yatra have been suspended following the arrival of the monsoon and worsening weather conditions. Officials said the decision was taken to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Authorities said the suspension has been enforced in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Rudraprayag District Magistrate Vishal Mishra said all helicopter operations for the Kedarnath pilgrimage have been stopped until further orders.
Mishra said “Helicopters operated by Thambi Aviation, Himalayan Heli, Rajas Aero, United Helicharters, Pilgrimage Aviation, Chipsan Aviation, Trans Bharat Aviation and other operators have returned to their respective bases following the suspension. During the monsoon period, pilgrims will have to rely on alternative modes of transport such as ponies, mules and palanquins. Services will resume only after weather conditions improve and necessary clearances are granted.”
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Dehradun has issued a heavy rainfall alert for Rudraprayag district till July 4. Following the forecast, the district administration has asked residents and pilgrims to remain alert.
The Uttarakhand government has also initiated emergency response measures after the IMD issued a three-day orange alert for heavy rainfall. As part of the safety measures, weather warning messages are being sent through SMS to people living in vulnerable areas.
Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman said the Char Dham Yatra is continuing, but the number of pilgrims is likely to decline if heavy rainfall continues across the Himalayan region.
Suman said, "The IMD has issued a three-day orange alert. SMS alerts are being sent to areas where heavy rainfall is expected. The Char Dham Yatra is continuing, but if rainfall increases, the number of pilgrims will certainly come down."
Heavy rain has been reported from several parts of Rudraprayag district, including the Kedarnath area.
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