Adverse weather conditions prevented Rahul Gandhi from travelling to Almora and Pauri Garhwal
June 4, 2026: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday cancelled his planned visit to Almora and Pauri Garhwal in Uttarakhand after severe weather conditions prevented his helicopter from taking off. Gandhi, who had arrived at Pantnagar Airport for a two-day outreach programme, was forced to return after the pilot cited safety concerns. In messages shared on social media, the Leader of the Opposition expressed disappointment at missing the opportunity to interact directly with people and promised to return soon.
Despite the cancellation, Gandhi addressed supporters in Almora and ex-servicemen virtually. He said he had intended to discuss Uttarakhand’s economic and social challenges, interact with local communities, and share his vision for the state’s future ahead of next year’s Assembly elections. Stressing that safety could not be compromised, Gandhi said circumstances were beyond anyone’s control but assured the public that the visit would be rescheduled.
During his virtual address, Gandhi criticised the BJP-led government, alleging that Uttarakhand was being governed through “remote control” from Delhi rather than by its own people. He accused the Centre of weakening economic safeguards, harming small businesses through GST implementation, undermining farmers’ interests, and reducing India’s strategic independence. Senior Congress leaders, including Yashpal Arya and former Chief Minister Harish Rawat, attended the public programme held in his absence.