Pilgrim's Tragic End: A Stranded Journey

A 69-year-old pilgrim from Gujarat, Dilip Bhai Mannu Mali, suffered a cardiac arrest and died in Kedarnath, yet his body remained stranded for over five hours.

His family had to shell out Rs 65,000 to a private helicopter operator for transportation, as local authorities failed to provide timely assistance despite their pleas.

A pause in helicopter services due to safety inspections added to the delay, highlighting gaps in the existing emergency protocols for pilgrim transport in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)