New Delhi, June 4: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday expressed regret over his inability to attend scheduled public events in Uttarakhand after adverse weather conditions prevented his helicopter from taking off from Pantnagar.

In a message shared on social media platform X, Gandhi said he had arrived in Pantnagar and was set to travel to Almora by helicopter for a public gathering. However, the flight was cancelled after the pilot deemed the weather conditions unsafe for takeoff.

Addressing the people of Uttarakhand, Gandhi said he had been looking forward to meeting residents, hearing their concerns, and discussing issues affecting the state. “I wanted to spend time with you, understand your aspirations, and discuss the challenges and opportunities before Uttarakhand. Unfortunately, severe weather conditions made the visit impossible,” he said.

The Congress leader noted that apart from the Almora public meeting, he was also scheduled to interact with ex-servicemen in Pauri Garhwal. A visit to a gym in Kotdwar was also part of his planned itinerary.

Gandhi emphasized that safety must take precedence in such situations and said no risks could be taken when weather conditions were unfavourable. He added that while the cancellation was disappointing, respecting nature and ensuring the safety of all passengers remained paramount.

“We are all answerable to nature, and there can be no compromise on safety. Sometimes circumstances are beyond our control, but that does not lessen my desire to meet you or weaken our bond,” he said.

Assuring residents that the visit would be rescheduled, Gandhi promised to return to Uttarakhand soon and spend more time interacting with people across the state. He said he looked forward to discussing the state's future, listening to public feedback, and engaging in meaningful conversations about Uttarakhand’s development.

“I will return very soon. We will then have enough time to meet, exchange ideas, and together discuss the path towards a brighter future for Uttarakhand,” Gandhi said.