Jaipur : Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagade narrowly avoided a potential disaster when his official helicopter experienced a technical malfunction shortly after takeoff from Pali on March 29, 2025. The incident occurred around 4:03 PM at the Girls’ College helipad, where the helicopter emitted thick smoke and a loud explosion just 25–30 feet in the air. Fortunately, the pilot managed to execute an emergency landing safely, averting a major accident.
At the time of the incident, Governor Bagade was not onboard, having already left by road for another engagement in Sonana Khetlaji. The helicopter, which had dropped him off earlier, was returning to Jaipur when the malfunction occurred. Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke billowing from the aircraft, and videos of the incident quickly circulated on social media, raising concerns over the safety of VIP air travel.
Emergency teams, including firefighters and medical personnel, rushed to the scene as a precaution. Authorities covered the helicopter with a tarpaulin and called in a technical team to inspect the engine. While preliminary reports suggest a technical fault, an official investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.
Despite the scare, Governor Bagade continued his scheduled engagements, traveling to Udaipur the following day after staying overnight in Ranakpur. The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of safety protocols for government aircraft, particularly those transporting high-profile officials.
Further updates on the investigation are expected as aviation experts examine the helicopter for possible mechanical failures.
