Since April 22, more than 21,000 pilgrims have availed helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, according to data released by the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA). The helicopter operators have conducted over 4,000 sorties to ferry devotees to the four sacred shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Helicopter Operations and Challenges
UCADA officials reported that despite adverse weather conditions, including rain and low visibility, helicopter services have been operating efficiently. The operators have managed to maintain a high number of flights, ensuring pilgrims can complete their journey without significant delays. However, some flights were cancelled due to bad weather, affecting a small percentage of bookings.
Pilgrim Safety and Regulations
Authorities have emphasized safety measures, with all helicopters undergoing mandatory checks. Pilgrims are advised to book tickets only through authorized operators to avoid fraud. The state government has set fixed fares for helicopter services, ranging from Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,000 per person depending on the destination.
Impact on Tourism
The availability of helicopter services has boosted tourism, allowing elderly and physically challenged pilgrims to visit the shrines. Local businesses in the region have also benefited from the increased footfall. UCADA plans to expand helicopter services to other pilgrimage routes in the coming years.
As the Char Dham Yatra season progresses, officials expect the number of helicopter users to rise further. Pilgrims are encouraged to plan their trips in advance and check weather updates before traveling.
