THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Uttarkashi, May 8: A tragic helicopter crash near Gangnani in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district claimed five lives and left two others injured on Thursday morning, officials confirmed.

As per reports, the helicopter was headed toward the Gangotri shrine when it crashed under unknown circumstances. The pilot, identified as Captain Robin Singh, was flying the aircraft at the time of the incident.

The incident occurred around 8:45 am on the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway, when a private chopper operated by AeroTrans Services Private Limited plunged into a 200-250 metre deep gorge.

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According to the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the helicopter had taken off from the Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun and was en route to the Kharsali helipad in Yamunotri, carrying seven individuals including the pilot. Among those on board, four passengers were from Mumbai and two from Andhra Pradesh.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the accident and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
He stated that the administration has been directed to provide all necessary assistance to the injured and ensure a thorough investigation into the crash. Dhami also mentioned that he is closely monitoring the situation and remains in constant contact with officials on the ground.
