A surprising incident occurred in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, when a section of the helipad used for President Droupadi Murmu’s helicopter landing partially collapsed. This happened shortly after the President’s chopper touched down, creating small depressions where the wheels rested. Fortunately, the President had already disembarked and was proceeding to Sabarimala via road.
What Caused the Helipad to Collapse?
According to a senior police official, the decision to use the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium helipad was a last-minute one. The helipad was hastily constructed late the previous evening. The original landing plan was changed from Nilackal to Pramadam due to unfavorable weather conditions. The officer explained that because the concrete had not fully set overnight, it could not withstand the helicopter’s weight upon landing, leading to the depressions.
Following the President’s departure, police and fire department personnel were seen assisting in moving the helicopter out of the affected area.
President Murmu is on a four-day visit to Kerala. After landing in Thiruvananthapuram, she traveled to Pathanamthitta the next morning for her visit to the Sabarimala shrine.