Key Points
- An AIIMS Rishikesh air ambulance helicopter crash-landed near Kedarnath on Saturday due to rear section damage.
- The helicopter was on a medical evacuation mission, carrying a doctor, a pilot, and a medical staff member.
- All three onboard escaped unharmed, confirmed by Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey.
- The helicopter came down about 20 meters short of the designated helipad.
- Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the incident.
Kedarnath, Uttarakhand: A major tragedy was averted on Saturday morning as an air ambulance helicopter operated by AIIMS Rishikesh crash-landed near the holy town of Kedarnath. The incident occurred after the helicopter sustained damage to its rear section while en route to evacuate a critically ill patient from the region.
What Happened?
According to officials, the helicopter was on a medical emergency mission, carrying three people: a doctor, the pilot (Captain), and a medical staff member. As the helicopter approached the Kedarnath helipad, it suffered damage to its tail section, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing.
The aircraft came down approximately 20 meters short of the designated landing area, but thanks to the skillful handling by the pilot, a disaster was avoided.
All On Board Safe
Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed that all three individuals on board escaped without injuries.
“The pilot, doctor, and medical staff are all safe and have been rescued from the site,” he stated.
Eyewitnesses reported that the helicopter made a hard landing but did not catch fire or suffer further structural damage, allowing the crew to exit safely.
Mission Details
The air ambulance was dispatched to Kedarnath to evacuate a patient requiring urgent medical attention. The region, known for its challenging weather and difficult terrain, often relies on helicopter services for critical medical emergencies, especially during the busy pilgrimage season.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have cordoned off the crash site and initiated a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the rear section damage. Preliminary reports suggest technical failure, but a full inquiry by aviation safety officials is expected.
Background
Kedarnath, located in the Garhwal Himalayas, is a remote pilgrimage destination where helicopter services are vital for both pilgrims and emergency medical evacuations. The incident has once again highlighted the risks faced by air ambulance crews operating in such demanding conditions.
A timely and skillful response by the AIIMS Rishikesh air ambulance crew prevented a potential disaster near Kedarnath. All three onboard are safe, and authorities are now focused on uncovering the cause of the crash-landing to ensure future air safety in the region.
