DGCA Approves Helicopter Services for Chardham Yatra Following Monsoon Break
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has officially approved the resumption of helicopter operations for the Chardham Yatra, set to begin on September 15-16, 2025, following the monsoon season. This decision comes after a thorough review aimed at enhancing safety protocols for the pilgrimage, which attracts thousands of devotees to the high-altitude shrines in Uttarakhand. Under the guidance of Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, the DGCA has implemented strict safety measures to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew during the operations.
Safety Initiatives and Coordination Efforts
In light of recent helicopter accidents in the Chardham sector, the DGCA has prioritized safety by conducting comprehensive inspections and audits of all helipads, helicopters, and operator preparedness. These evaluations took place from September 13 to 16, 2025, and were crucial in securing the approval for the recommencement of operations. Minister Naidu has emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for safety lapses, leading to enhanced coordination among the DGCA, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Uttarakhand government, and the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA). Multiple review meetings held in Dehradun and Delhi have facilitated this collaboration, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned in their commitment to safety.
Operational Framework for Helicopter Services
The Chardham Yatra helicopter services will consist of two main components: charter services from Dehradun (Sahastradhara) to the shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, and shuttle services to the Kedarnath Ji Helipad from the Guptkashi, Phata, and Sitapur clusters. A total of six helicopter operators will manage the shuttle operations, while seven operators or consortiums will handle charter flights from Dehradun. Recognizing the importance of these services in facilitating pilgrim movement to remote and high-altitude locations, the DGCA has instituted rigorous safety measures to ensure smooth and secure operations throughout the pilgrimage season.
Enhanced Safety Measures and Regulatory Oversight
The DGCA has introduced several key safety initiatives aimed at bolstering the safety of helicopter operations. These measures include strengthened pilot qualifications and training, with mandatory route checks and recurrent training focusing on high-altitude operations and adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the DGCA has implemented enhanced airworthiness oversight, ensuring that all helicopters meet stringent maintenance and inspection standards. Operational safety measures have also been reinforced, including strict enforcement of weight and balance limits and the use of modern navigation aids. Furthermore, passenger safety protocols have been established, including pre-flight briefings and the deployment of additional ground staff at helipads to assist passengers.
Commitment to Passenger Safety
The DGCA remains steadfast in its commitment to aviation safety, reiterating that the well-being of passengers and crew is of utmost importance. With the recommencement of helicopter services for the Chardham Yatra, the DGCA aims to provide a safe, efficient, and reliable mode of transport for pilgrims visiting these revered shrines. Continuous monitoring and regulatory oversight will be maintained throughout the season, ensuring compliance with safety directives and fostering a secure environment for all involved in the pilgrimage.
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