Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s helicopter was forced to change course on Thursday after dust storm hit Kalyan and parts of Mumbai Metropolitan Region that led to bad weather in Thane district.
According to the officials, the pilot acted swiftly and safely landed the helicopter at Juhu Pawan Hans in Mumbai.
“No injuries were reported and all passengers on board are safe,” said an official.
The officials said that Shinde had left Mumbai for Murbad to attend a wedding function in the family of a party office-bearer.
The helicopter took off from the Mahalaxmi Racecourse helipad at around 3.30 pm.
As the aircraft reached near Airoli, the pilot noticed severe weather conditions and strong winds approaching from the front.
Pilot took precautionary decision
After assessing the possible danger, the pilot informed Shinde about the situation and decided to turn the helicopter back instead of continuing the journey.
Within a few minutes, the helicopter safely landed at the Juhu Pawan Hans facility in Mumbai.
Officials said the timely decision and presence of mind shown by the pilot helped avoid any untoward incident.
Officials were also onboard
Apart from Eknath Shinde, those travelling in the helicopter included his personal assistant Prabhakar Kale, Officer on Special Duty Balsingh Rajput, Public Relations Officer Vinayak Patrudkar, security personnel and representatives of the aviation company.
After the successful landing, all passengers safely returned to Shinde’s residence.
Dust storm hits Kalyan, parts of MMR
A dust storm accompanied by strong winds hit Kalyan and other parts of Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) on Thursday evening, causing reduced visibility and concern among residents.
Heavy wind flow was also reported near the Mulund-Thane stretch, particularly along LBS Marg and the check naka area.
Videos of the dust storm, shared on social media platform X, showed thick dust clouds and gusty winds across the region.
Weather alert
According to the weather department, light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms are likely in the region between 4 pm and 7 pm in Thane, Kalyan, Navi Mumbai and adjoining areas.
The forecast mentioned light thunderstorms with maximum surface wind speeds below 40 kmph.
Light rainfall of less than 5 mm per hour and moderate rain ranging between 5 mm and 15 mm per hour is also expected in isolated areas, the weather alert stated.
Officials were monitoring the situation and have advised residents to take precautions while travelling.
