Dehradun, May 16: State-run Pawan Hans began its business operation to Kedarnath early this morning and operated two passenger flights to the famous Himalayan shrine situated in Rudraprayag district of Uttaranchal. District Magistrate Rudraprayag R K Sudhanshu and Pawan Hans general manager Wing Com G S Madan in the inaugural flight boarded an american five-seater bell-407 helicopter that took them from Augustmuni to Kedarnath, the company's Deputy General Manager (Operation) Capt Irshad Ahmed said.

Later Pawan Hans, operated two flights to Kedarnath carrying pilgrims from Mumbai.
"We operated two passenger flights to Kedarnath today. With this, our business operation from Kedarnath has begun," Capt Irshad said.

With the start of the helicopter service, pilgrims would now have the choice of avoiding the arduous 14 km trek from Gaurikund, the last motor road-head, to Kedarnath situated at an altitude of 3,584 metres.

Normally, pilgrims either trek or ride on ponies and palanquins to cover this distance.

The helicopter service in its one way flight would cover the distance from Augustmuni to Kedarnath in just 20 minutes, Capt Ahmed said.
For chopper booking, passengers can approach the corporate office of Pawan Hans in New Delhi and Augustmuni.

Initially, there will be six flights to and from Augustmuni at an hour's duration starting at 6.30 am. Each passenger would have to dole out Rs 8,000 for availing the service, official sources said adding there will be no flights in the evening as weather conditions in the hills do not permit.

Bureau Report