The Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) on Saturday suspended all helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra with immediate effect, citing escalating national security concerns and safety risks for pilgrims amid the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions.
The decision comes as thousands of devotees continue their sacred pilgrimage to the four holy shrines — Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri — nestled in the Himalayas.
In an official statement, UCADA clarified:
“Helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra stand suspended with immediate effect. Services will now be strictly limited to evacuation purposes only — to airlift stranded or distressed pilgrims from the shrine locations.”
This restriction will remain in force until further notice and is part of a broader safety protocol activated across the northern states in response to increased cross-border hostilities.
The move follows a string of security alerts across northern India, including airspace restrictions, drone incursions, and missile threats stemming from the ongoing military standoff between India and Pakistan. Key pilgrimage zones in Uttarakhand, especially Kedarnath and Badrinath, are situated close to sensitive high-altitude zones.
Earlier this week, the Ministry of Civil Aviation issued advisories to all state aviation bodies to enhance surveillance and ensure strict flight safety.
UCADA officials emphasized that pilgrim safety is the top priority. Local administrations and disaster response teams have been mobilized in all four shrine zones, and on-ground transportation is being organized to help pilgrims descend safely.
“We urge all pilgrims to remain calm and cooperate with local authorities. Those at high-altitude shrines are advised to stay in designated shelters until further evacuation is arranged,” said a senior UCADA official.
The suspension of air services is likely to cause delays and logistical challenges for the Char Dham Yatra, which draws lakhs of devotees each year. Pilgrims with pre-booked helicopter tickets have been asked to contact their operators for refund or rescheduling options.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is scheduled to review the situation with officials from UCADA, police, disaster response, and the state tourism department to ensure coordinated management of the crisis and maintain essential services for pilgrims on the ground.
Pilgrims currently en route to the Char Dham or planning their visit are advised to defer travel until further announcements and to stay updated through official Uttarakhand government portals and UCADA channels.
