An operation is underway to recover bodies from a remote helicopter crash site in Uttarakhand
Debris and smoke seen at the site where a private helicopter operated by Trans Bharat Aviation crashed into a hillside near Chai village in Joshimath area of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand on October 30, 2026. Photo credit: PTI
The operation to recover the bodies of the six victims of the helicopter crash in Uttarakhand resumed on Saturday (October 31, 2026) morning, officials said.
Rescue efforts began at 5am on Saturday (October 31, 2026) but recovery from the remote area would be difficult, they said. The operation was halted on Friday (October 30, 2026) due to darkness, the presence of wild bears and other animals, and difficult terrain.
A privately-run helicopter carrying pilgrims from Badrinath crashed into a hillside in Joshimath, Uttarakhand, killing all six of its occupants. The helicopter operated by Trans Bharat Aviation was returning from Badrinath shrine to Dehradun.
The bodies of the pilot and five pilgrims from Karnataka were found near the wreckage in Chai village.
The district administration said that on Saturday (October 31, 2026) morning, a forest department team was also sent to the spot to retrieve the bodies.
A team from the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) will also arrive at the scene that day to investigate the accident.
Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said orders have been issued to investigate and determine the exact cause of the accident.
“We pray to God to grant the departed souls a place at his divine feet and give strength to their families and loved ones who are going through immense grief and trauma at this difficult time,” Mr Dhami said.
Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) director general Prateek Jain told PTI, “The bodies have been recovered but recovery is difficult due to the terrain. The mortal remains will be brought to Chamoli district headquarters through a trek and will be taken to Dehradun after post-mortem.”
Asked about the permission to fly despite the warning issued by the IMD, Mr Jain said, “We have also issued a recommendation, but that is now under investigation.”
On Friday (October 30, 2026), officials said that after recovery, the bodies would be taken to Joshimath town for post-mortem on Saturday (October 31, 2026).
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) also said that its team has been sent to Dehradun to conduct a preliminary and regulatory assessment of the accident.
Published – 31 Oct 2026 12:14 IST