Tragedy in the Skies Kedarnath
Helicopter Crash

The sacred land of Kedarnath, where thousands of devotees visit for spiritual peace, turned into
a place of mourning on June 15, 2025, when a helicopter carrying seven people crashed in the
early morning. All passengers, including the pilot, sadly lost their lives.

       Let’s understand what really happened, who were the victims, and what steps are being taken
now.

    What Happened?

       At around 5:30 AM, an Aryan Aviation helicopter took off from Kedarnath, headed toward
Guptkashi. Within minutes, it crashed near Jungle Chatti in the Kedar valley, a hilly area
known for difficult flying conditions.

       The aircraft was a Bell 407 chopper (VT-BKA). According to initial investigations, the crash
was caused by poor weather, especially thick fog and low visibility. The pilot likely
couldn’t see the mountain terrain ahead, resulting in a Controlled Flight Into Terrain
(CFIT) — a situation where the aircraft crashes into the ground despite being under control.

Who Were the Victims?

      All seven people onboard died, including:

• Captain Rajveer Singh Chauhan (39), a respected pilot and former Army officer. He was a new father to twins.

• Vinod Devi (66) from Uttar Pradesh.

• Trishti Singh (19), also from Uttar Pradesh.

• Rajkumar Jaiswal (41), a resident of Yavatmal, Maharashtra.

• Shraddha Jaiswal, his wife.

• Kashi, their 2-year-old daughter.

• Vikram Rawat, from Uttarakhand.

     These were ordinary people with deep faith, on a journey to seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
Their loss has left their families devastated.

Rescue Efforts & Government Action

      Rescue teams including NDRF, SDRF, and local police rushed to the site. Sadly, there were no
survivors. The wreckage was found burning, and all bodies were recovered.

      Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami took the following immediate steps:

• Suspended all helicopter services for two days.

• Ordered strict guidelines for flying in bad weather.

• Formed a technical committee to investigate safety lapses.

     The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) also suspended Aryan Aviation’s
services for the Char Dham route and launched a full investigation through the Aircraft
Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).

   Stories That Break the Heart

     One of the most touching moments from this tragedy: A family that was supposed to board the
same helicopter didn’t go because their child fell sick. That illness unknowingly saved their lives.

     Pilot Rajveer Singh Chauhan, a former Army man, was known for his calm and disciplined
nature. He had just welcomed twin babies into the world — making this loss even more
heartbreaking.

What Needs to Change?

     This is not the first time a helicopter has crashed in the Char Dham Yatra region. With difficult
terrain and unpredictable weather, extra caution is essential.

     Here’s what experts recommend:

1. No-fly policy during dense fog or poor visibility.

2. Advanced weather radar systems at helipads.

3. Experienced pilots trained for mountain flying only.

4. Regular checks and audits for helicopter operators.

5. Real-time communication systems for pilots and ground staff.

Final Words

    The Kedarnath helicopter crash is a painful reminder that faith must walk hand in hand
with safety. As the government and aviation authorities work on new guidelines, the hope is
that no family will have to face such heartbreak again.

    Let us pray for the souls lost in this tragedy and demand a safer path for all future pilgrims.

    Stay informed. Stay safe. Jai Kedarnath. 🙏