Compromising on Safety Standards Unacceptable: CM Dhami Warns Heli Service Operators

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has issued a stern warning to helicopter service operators in Uttarakhand, making it clear that any compromise on safety standards will not be tolerated. Emphasizing the utmost priority of passenger safety, CM Dhami directed all heli operators to strictly adhere to safety norms and not be swayed by the growing number of passengers using heli services.

CM Dhami gave strong instructions regarding the safety protocols for heli services, and also ordered a comprehensive audit and regular review of all helicopter accidents that occurred in recent years to prevent their recurrence. He stated that ensuring the safety of passengers is the highest responsibility of the state’s nodal authorities.

During a review meeting held at the Chief Minister’s residence with all helicopter service providers, operators, and officials from UCADA (Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority), AAIIB (Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau), and DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), CM Dhami outlined several important directives:

• Mandatory Weather Cameras: Weather cameras must be installed not only in Kedarnath Valley but across all Char Dham valleys to enhance weather monitoring and service safety.
• Double Engine Helicopters Policy: UCADA has been instructed to draft a solid policy that mandates the use of only double-engine helicopters in the future.
• Strict Fitness Checks: Regular helicopter fitness checks must be strictly enforced.
• Booking SOPs: A robust and effective Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) must be developed for helicopter ticket bookings.
• Engine Safety Standards: Helicopters operating in high Himalayan regions must strictly comply with engine safety standards.
• Experienced Pilots: Only highly experienced pilots should be allowed to operate helicopter services in the state.
• Passenger Sensitivity: Operators must maintain a sensitive and respectful approach towards passengers to ensure tourists leave Uttarakhand with a positive experience.

The Chief Minister also directed heli operators and local administration to launch cleanliness campaigns along the Char Dham routes.

He further mentioned that, considering the growing demand for helicopter services in the state, several new helipads are under construction. So far this year, over 66,000 passengers have benefited from heli shuttle services.

CM Dhami also instructed UCADA to prepare a comprehensive roadmap for helicopter services for the next 10 years, recognizing the importance of these services due to Uttarakhand’s challenging geography and its identity as a hub for tourism and Char Dham pilgrimages.

The meeting was attended by senior officials including Chief Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu, R. Meenakshi Sundaram, Secretary Sachin Kurve, Additional Secretary Sonika, and all heli and charter service operators currently serving in the state.

Issued by the Department of Information and Public Relations