‘No compromise with safety': Dhami mandates twin-engine choppers, weather cameras
Dehradun: Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday issued strict directives to enhance safety standards for helicopter services operating in Uttarakhand. He ordered a comprehensive audit of past helicopter accidents and made the installation of weather cameras in all Char Dham valleys mandatory.
Emphasising that there should be "no compromise with safety", the CM instructed the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) to formulate a robust policy mandating the use of only double-engine helicopters in future operations. UCADA has also been tasked with preparing a 10-year strategic plan for heli services in the state.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at his residence, Dhami engaged with stakeholders including heli service providers, UCADA officials, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
He stressed that passenger safety must always take precedence over the number of passengers served.
To prevent the recurrence of accidents, Dhami directed continuous audits of all past helicopter incidents. He also called for regular fitness checks of helicopters, a robust and effective SOP for ticket booking and strict compliance with engine safety standards, especially in high-altitude Himalayan regions.
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Given the frequent weather-related disruptions in heli services, the CM reiterated the importance of installing real-time weather cameras in all Char Dham valleys, including Kedarnath.
Dhami also instructed UCADA to study the Vaishno Devi heli service model and recommended deploying only highly experienced pilots for operations in the state. Heli operators were urged to maintain a sensitive and tourist-friendly approach, ensuring a positive travel experience for pilgrims and visitors.
Additionally, he directed both heli operators and the administration to conduct cleanliness drives along the Char Dham routes.
Highlighting the rising demand for helicopter travel, Dhami noted that over 66,000 passengers have used heli shuttle services this year alone, and multiple helipads are currently under construction. He emphasised that, given Uttarakhand's challenging terrain and status as a key religious tourism hub, heli services are poised to become an essential component of the state's infrastructure.
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