Uttarakhand CM Announces Helicopter Services Resumption in Kedarnath

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that helicopter services to Kedarnath will resume with a 25% concession on fare. The decision follows extensive damage due to landslides, affecting water, power, and telecom lines. Collective rescue efforts have been made by multiple agencies to mitigate the crisis.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced on Tuesday that helicopter services in Kedarnath would resume from Wednesday, offering a 25% concession on fares for pilgrims. Dhami, who reviewed the situation with senior officials in Rudraprayag, highlighted the extensive damage on the rain-ravaged Kedarnath trek route, including 29 landslide breaches and disruptions to water, power, and telecommunication lines.

'An alternative route for pilgrims should be readied, and new helipads should also be built,' Dhami added, emphasizing the need for rapid infrastructural repairs to resume the yatra. Collective efforts by the disaster management department, district administration, SDRF, NDRF, the priest community, and public representatives have been crucial in the rescue operations.

Despite the ongoing challenges, Dhami confirmed the rescue work is near completion and stressed resuming the pilgrimage. The helicopter service, beginning from tomorrow, will allow pilgrims to reach the temple with a 25% ticket rebate.

(With inputs from agencies.)