World · India Bureau
Helicopter operations continued despite weather warnings, activist alleges
Civil society groups have questioned the decision to permit helicopter sorties in Uttarakhand even after meteorological agencies issued orange alerts for the region. The criticism comes as officials had reportedly advised restricting tourist movement ahead of the weather system.
LSN India ·
Activist Anoop Nautiyal has raised concerns over helicopter operations being cleared to proceed despite advance weather warnings for Uttarakhand's Chamoli district and four other regions. An orange alert—indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall and snowfall—had been issued by meteorological authorities for October 30, prompting questions about risk management protocols.
Nautiyal pointed out that the tragedy underscores the particular gravity of operating aircraft in hazardous weather conditions when advance notice had been provided. The activist alleged that while the Chief Medical Officer had recommended regulating tourist movement during the period, helicopter sorties were permitted to continue.
The incident has sparked broader debate about balancing tourism activities with public safety in sensitive mountain regions. Authorities have not yet issued a formal statement addressing the allegations regarding the decision-making process during the adverse weather window.
The episode highlights ongoing tensions between economic interests tied to tourism and the imperative to implement precautionary measures when weather systems pose documented risks to aviation operations in the state.