The Uttarakhand government is planning to start a new helicopter shuttle service from Jyotirmath to Badrinath to make travel easier for pilgrims. Officials said the plan is similar to the existing chopper shuttle service on the Kedarnath route, which is already popular among devotees visiting the Char Dham shrines.
Jyotirmath, which was earlier known as Joshimath, is about 42 kilometers away from Badrinath by road. The new shuttle will reduce travel time and offer a safer, more comfortable journey, especially for elderly pilgrims and those with health concerns.
At present, chopper services to Badrinath are only available from Dehradun as part of the full Char Dham chartered helicopter package. This package can be expensive for many pilgrims. The new service from Jyotirmath would provide a shorter and more affordable option.
Sachin Kurve, the civil aviation secretary of Uttarakhand, said that the state has already sent the proposal to the Union civil aviation ministry. He added, “We have sent a proposal to operate chopper shuttle service from Jyotirmath to Badrinath Dham. If everything goes smoothly, we will start the service from this year itself.”
Officials say the new helicopter route will be based on the successful model of the Kedarnath shuttle service, which operates between Guptkashi or Phata and Kedarnath. That service has helped thousands of pilgrims avoid the long and difficult trek to the temple.
While the new chopper service is expected to help more people reach Badrinath, it comes at a time when safety concerns are rising due to recent helicopter accidents in the state. Just a few weeks ago, a tragic incident occurred during the Char Dham Yatra.
On June 15, a helicopter carrying pilgrims from Kedarnath crashed near Gaurikund. All seven people on board, including a two-year-old girl, lost their lives in the accident. It was a major blow to the yatra and raised serious questions about the safety of chopper operations in the hilly region.
This was not a one-time incident. In fact, it was the fifth helicopter-related mishap in just six weeks. There were three emergency landings before this crash, and earlier, on May 8, a helicopter crashed in Uttarkashi, killing six people.
Due to these back-to-back accidents, the Uttarakhand government decided to take immediate action. It formed a committee to create new safety guidelines (Standard Operating Procedures or SOPs) for helicopter services in the state.
The committee is led by state home secretary Shailesh Bagauli, and its job is to study the causes of the crashes and suggest preventive measures. The panel is expected to submit its report by August 15.
ALSO READ: Two IAF personnel drown in lake as heavy rains lash Uttarakhand
ALSO READ: 3 kanwariyas killed in truck accident on Rishikesh-Chamba highway
Officials said that the committee will also examine the current air traffic management systems and recommend changes, if needed. The goal is to ensure safe and smooth helicopter operations during the Char Dham Yatra and other pilgrimages.
The panel will also have the power to consult aviation experts and take expert opinions where necessary. The state government hopes that with proper planning, the risk of accidents can be reduced, and devotees can travel with peace of mind.
The planned shuttle service from Jyotirmath to Badrinath is a big step by the Uttarakhand government to improve accessibility and comfort for pilgrims. If approved by the central government, the service could begin this year itself.
However, the recent accidents highlight that safety must be the top priority. The newly formed committee’s report will play a key role in deciding how helicopter services can be made safer in the Himalayan region.
As the Char Dham Yatra continues to attract thousands of pilgrims every year, it is essential that travel arrangements remain both convenient and secure.
Copyright © © 2022 Copyright. All Rights Reserved with Arth Parkash