Overview
- The Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) has suspended all commercial and pilgrimage-related helicopter flights across the Char Dham circuit, citing security concerns from the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict.
- Helicopter services are now restricted to emergency evacuations, prioritizing stranded pilgrims requiring urgent assistance.
- Over 50% of hotel and flight bookings for the Char Dham Yatra have been cancelled in the past few days, with hoteliers reporting significant economic losses.
- Temporary police stations have been established at all four Dhams, and CCTV installations are underway to monitor pilgrim movements as part of enhanced security efforts.
- Conflicting statements persist, as the Uttarakhand government claims helicopter services have resumed due to weather improvements, while UCADA maintains the suspension remains in effect due to security concerns.