Uttarakhand CM Announces Helicopter Services to Kedarnath Amid Flood Recovery Efforts

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announced helicopter services to Kedarnath beginning August 7, with a 25% discount for passengers. Amidst heavy rainfall disruptions, the government is focusing on restoring road connectivity and creating alternate routes. Dhami also conducted aerial and ground surveys of affected regions.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced on Tuesday that pilgrims will be able to visit the Kedarnath temple by helicopter starting Wednesday, August 7, with passengers receiving a 25% discount.

Dhami provided details on the concluded rescue operation, emphasizing the current focus on restoring road and other connectivity. He noted that alternate routes will be created to assist in recovery and to accommodate stranded pilgrims and tourists affected by heavy rains along the Sonprayag-Kedarnath road.

The disaster caused substantial loss of life and property, with road connectivity disrupted at 29 locations and landslides reported. The District Administration, NDRF, SDRF, local police, and other agencies have been instrumental in recovery efforts. Dhami extended gratitude to PM Modi and Union HM Amit Shah for their support. Earlier, the Chief Minister conducted aerial and ground inspections of affected areas in Rudraprayag and Sonprayag, focusing on repair work for roads and bridges to expedite the Kedarnath Yatra route's reopening.

The Kedarnath temple, one of India's most revered Shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracts thousands of devotees annually during the six-month period it is open for visitors.

(With inputs from agencies.)