Jungle Chatti Landslide Kedarnath News: Is It Safe to Travel Now?

Published: June 16, 2025

At 6:30 AM, my phone buzzed with a travel alert. A landslide at Jungle Chatti had just halted the Kedarnath Yatra route. Minutes later, news broke of a tragic helicopter crash near Gaurikund. Suddenly, it wasn’t just another trek into the Himalayas—it was a test of faith, patience, and judgment.

Here’s the latest Kedarnath news, explained clearly for every pilgrim and travel planner.

🚨 What Just Happened at Jungle Chatti?

Heavy rains triggered a landslide near Jungle Chatti, a known vulnerable point between Sonprayag and Kedarnath. One pilgrim lost their life, and two were injured. The authorities immediately halted the yatra for safety and initiated clearing operations. Roads were muddy, unstable, and closed to foot traffic.

This is not an isolated case. With monsoon clouds now entering Uttarakhand, several such landslide-prone areas are on red alert.

🚁 Helicopter Crash Raises Safety Concerns

The more chilling report came from Gaurikund, where a Bell 407 helicopter operated by Aryan Aviation crashed into dense fog. Seven lives were lost, including a toddler. The chopper had taken off just after sunrise, in dangerously low visibility conditions.

This is the fifth aviation accident in the Kedarnath sector since April—a serious blow to heli-transport safety in the region. As a result:

• All helicopter services to Kedarnath have been suspended temporarily

• An FIR has been lodged against the aviation company for culpable homicide

• Aviation experts have questioned why helicopters are flying without radar or ATC support in such mountainous zones

  

  Praying for Safety on Jungle Chatti’s Dangerous Trail

⚠️ Is It Safe to Visit Kedarnath Now?

Here’s the truth: It’s better to wait.

If you're planning to begin or continue the Kedarnath trek in the coming days, you should know:

• Landslides are still possible, especially in high-altitude areas like Jungle Chatti, Linchauli, and Bhimbali

• Helicopter flights are grounded, and the DGCA is reviewing all aviation permissions in the area

• No mobile signal past Sonprayag means you're on your own in case of an emergency

• Weather forecasts predict rainfall through June 19, which increases risk of further slides or fog

  
  

🛠️ What Are the Authorities Doing?

Despite the unfortunate events, state agencies have taken quick action:

• Trail clearing has begun at Jungle Chatti using JCB machines and SDRF teams

• DGCA has imposed flight caps: Only 9 flights per hour allowed now, and only experienced pilots with proven mountain credentials can fly

• Flight SOPs updated: No flying before 7 AM, and real-time weather reports are now mandatory

• Investigation teams deployed for the crash; two heli-company managers have already been booked

  
  

🧭 Smart Travel Tips for Kedarnath Pilgrims

If you're planning the Kedarnath Yatra, or you're already in the region, take these precautions:

✅ Before the trip:

• Check weather reports daily (IMD & Met Department)

• Follow official tourism alerts from Uttarakhand Tourism and local police

• Plan for extra buffer days if delays occur due to landslides

  
  

✅ On the ground:

• Carry rain gear, energy bars, emergency medicines, and a power bank

• Download offline maps and contacts before leaving Sonprayag

• Avoid early morning treks or flights, especially during fog or rain

• If stuck, move to the nearest safe shelter; don’t wait on exposed trails

  
  

🌄 A Final Thought: When the Mountain Says “Wait,” Listen

Over the years, I've seen pilgrims brave storms and altitudes for a glimpse of Kedarnath. But some journeys ask for pause, not persistence.

“The mountain doesn’t test your courage with danger—it tests your devotion with patience.”

If you're planning to start your Yatra this week, consider waiting. Let the trails stabilize. Let the sky clear. Because when you walk in safety, your devotion walks with you.

📚 References

1. Times of India – Flight ops carried out despite dense fog

2. Times of India – No ATC, no radar: Kedar pilots rely on eyesight

3. Reuters – Helicopter crash in northern India kills 7

4. ANI News – Helicopter crash details, SDRF response, and FIR filings

5. Rudraprayag Administration – Official Yatra Bulletin and Safety Advisory (June 16, 2025)