Uttarakhand Helicopter Crash: Chopper Carrying Six Passengers Crashes Near Joshimath

A helicopter returning from Badrinath to Dehradun reportedly crashed near Chai village in Chamoli. Six people were reportedly aboard as SDRF and police launched rescue operations.

Post Published By: DN Bureau

Updated : 30 October 2026, 3:36 PM IST

Rescue teams mobilised after a helicopter carrying six reportedly crashed in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district. (Img: X)

Chamoli: A helicopter travelling from Badrinath Dham to Sahastradhara in Dehradun reportedly crashed near Chai village in Joshimath, Chamoli district, on Sunday. Initial reports suggest that six passengers were aboard the aircraft when the incident occurred. Authorities have launched a search and rescue operation, while further details about the passengers' condition are awaited.

Helicopter Crashes During Return Journey From Badrinath

According to preliminary information, the helicopter was carrying passengers returning from the Badrinath pilgrimage when it reportedly met with an accident near Chai village. The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be established.

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Officials are attempting to establish contact with the pilot. However, initial reports indicate that communication has not been restored. Drones are also being deployed to help locate the aircraft and identify the crash site.

UCADA, Police and SDRF Join Rescue Operation

Following reports of the incident, teams from the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA), local police, district administration and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were mobilised.

Rescue personnel are working to reach the suspected crash location. Challenging terrain and unfavourable weather conditions could complicate efforts in the mountainous region.

CM Dhami Directs Officials to Expedite Rescue Efforts

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed concern over the incident and said he was closely monitoring the situation.

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In a message shared on social media platform X, Dhami confirmed that a coordinated rescue operation involving the district administration, Disaster Management Department and SDRF was underway.

He also directed officials to ensure that anyone critically injured is immediately airlifted to a higher medical facility for advanced treatment.

Passenger Details Awaited

The administration is yet to release comprehensive information about the passengers, the pilot's whereabouts or the extent of injuries. The number of casualties, if any, has also not been officially confirmed.

Rescue teams continue their efforts to locate the helicopter and determine the condition of everyone on board.