Helicopter sorties were allowed despite orange alert and CMO advice to regulate tourists, says activist

The Hindu National reported that a helicopter sortie was permitted on October 30 even after an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall and snowfall was issued for five districts, including Chamoli. The alert, issued by the state meteorological department, warned of rapidly deteriorating conditions that could affect air travel and ground movement. Tourists had been drawn to the area for its scenic valleys and pilgrimage sites, but the warning signaled that weather could become dangerous within hours.

Activist Anoop Nautiyal highlighted that the chief meteorological officer had explicitly advised authorities to regulate tourist flow and suspend non‑essential flights. He argued that allowing the helicopter to operate ignored the precautionary guidance and increased the chance of an accident. Nautiyal said the decision was especially troubling because similar warnings had been issued in the past, yet flights continued without additional safety checks or alternative arrangements for travelers.

The incident matters to readers across India because Uttarakhand relies heavily on tourism for its economy, and any loss of confidence in safety measures can affect local livelihoods. It also raises questions about how state agencies balance economic interests with public safety during extreme weather. Observers expect the state government to review its protocols and possibly impose stricter controls on aerial operations during future alerts.