Reports that rescue flights would have to be paid for had triggered outrage (Representational)
The Uttarakhand government on Sunday denied reports that it had issued an order that stated passengers would be charged for availing helicopters during rescue operations at the time of disasters.
Reports that the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority had ordered that charges for normal passengers availing helicopters in Pithoragarh during rescue operations at the time of disaster, will be fixed Rs 3,100 (including GST) per person had triggered outrage.
The government, however, clarified that the charges would be applicable only for using the helicopter services when they weren't being used for rescue services.
"It is being circulated by some people on the social media that the Uttarakhand government is charging for helicopter services from the disaster affected people in Pithoragarh. This is to clarify in this regard that the said news is completely misleading," it said in a statement.
"In view of the possibility of heavy rains and on the instructions of the Chief Minister Mr Trivendra Singh Rawat to safeguard the people trapped in the disaster, arrangements have been made for one helicopter each in Garhwal and Kumaon. Given the high sensitivity of Pithoragarh, it was decided to station the helicopter there.
"Also, clear instructions have been given to Heli Transport Company that no rent will be taken from people trapped in the disaster and local citizens. When the helicopter is not needed for disaster relief, only at that time it can be used for taking travelers (who are not disaster affected) from Dharchula to Gunji and for this the fare of Rs 2500 & GST can be charged from the passengers.
"This fare has been fixed only for non-rescue flights. But helicopter will not be used for ordinary passengers, if needed for disaster rescue operations. No rent will be taken for safely rescuing local people trapped in the disaster," the statement said.