Helicopter Tow Mission Ends in Crash Near Kedarnath

An MI-17 chopper of the Indian Air Force crashed while towing a snag-hit helicopter to Gauchar for repairs. The helicopter, unused since May due to technical issues, was empty at the time, avoiding casualties. Authorities urge people not to spread rumors.

An Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopter, towing a snag-hit chopper to Gauchar for repairs, crashed on Saturday near Kedarnath.

Thankfully, no casualties were reported as the helicopter was unoccupied, according to District Tourism Officer Rahul Chaubey.

The helicopter, belonging to Crystal Aviation Pvt Ltd, had been grounded since an emergency landing in May. During the towing mission, the MI-17 went off balance, prompting the pilot to release the unoccupied chopper in a safe spot. Emergency teams quickly arrived to assess the situation.

Authorities have requested the public to refrain from spreading unverified information about the incident.

(With inputs from agencies.)