PM condoles loss of life in accident during relief operations in Uttarakhand

The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Tuesday condoled the loss of life in accident during relief operations in flood ravaged Uttarakhand.

"Our forces are conducting a heroic task in rescue and relief work in Uttarakhand. This accident during relief operations has come as a huge shock to me. My heart goes out to the families of those who have lost their lives," said Dr. Singh.

"The nation mourns with me the loss of our heroes whose selfless work has saved thousands of lives. Continuing their work would be the best homage to them," he added.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) Mi-17 V5 helicopter crashed while engaged on a rescue mission in Uttarakhand today killing eight people, including its five crewmembers.

The Ministry of Defence has ordered a court of inquiry to investigate the crash of Mi-17 V5 helicopter that was on rescue mission from Gauchar to Guptkashi and Kedarnath, the epicentre of the devastation caused by heavy rain and landslides in Uttarakhand.

"One Mi-17 V5 helicopter of IAF on a rescue mission from Gauchar to Guptkashi and Kedarnath on return leg from Kedarnath has crashed North of Gaurikund. The eight persons onboard including five crew members sustained fatal injuries," said a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence.

"While a Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate into the accident, the IAF's rescue operations continue," the statement adds.