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Helicopter operations for the second phase of the Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra are set to begin on September 15. Bookings for the September 15–30 period were completed on September 7. Meanwhile, bookings for the October 1–15 period will open on September 22 at 11:00 AM. Although the monsoon season has not yet fully receded, a decision has been made—prioritizing safety—to permit helicopter operations only based on weather conditions, ensuring a smooth and safe journey for passengers.

Prateek Jain, CEO of the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority, stated that the helicopter shuttle service to Kedarnath Dham will commence tomorrow. Similarly, charter services for Char Dham and helicopter services for Hemkund Sahib will also begin on September 15. Bookings for the first phase (September 15–30) were concluded on September 7; consequently, bookings for the second phase (October 1–15) will open on September 22 at 11:00 AM. Pilgrims can book their tickets via the official IRCTC website.

Jain further explained that certain tickets are reserved for last-minute counter sales, though these are issued only when weather conditions are favorable. With the monsoon yet to fully withdraw from Uttarakhand, safety remains a priority as operations begin on September 15; Jain noted that the monsoon typically begins to recede gradually by this time.

However, due to persistent heavy cloud cover, special attention will be paid to flight safety. Coordination with the Meteorological Department is underway, and weather observation systems have been installed at both Kedarnath and Badrinath Dhams. Ultimately, permission for helicopter operations will be granted based on the prevailing weather conditions. The monsoon is in its final phase; consequently, helicopter operations may face delays for the next week or so. However, helicopter services are expected to run smoothly thereafter.