Helicopter with six aboard goes missing in Indian Himalayas

The helicopter took off from Badrinath, a major Hindu pilgrimage destination in Uttarakhand state, on Friday afternoon before communications were lost. Authorities have launched search and rescue operations in the mountainous terrain of the Indian Himalayas as efforts to locate the aircraft continue.

The incident marks the latest aviation accident in a region where challenging weather conditions and difficult topography frequently complicate flight operations. Badrinath, situated at high altitude in the northern state, is a major pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of visitors annually, many relying on helicopter services to reach the remote location.

Details regarding the identity of those aboard and the specific circumstances leading to the loss of contact remained unclear as rescue teams mobilized. The search operation was hampered by the mountainous terrain and weather conditions in the region.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing as authorities work to determine the fate of the aircraft and its occupants.