Uttarakhand implements comprehensive measures to control heavy influx of Char Dham Yatra devotees

Rudraprayag (Uttarakhand) [India], May 27 : To ensure a safer and more convenient Char Dham Yatra, the Government of Uttarakhand, has implemented comprehensive measures including traffic and transport enhancements, sanitation and health measures and management of frequent landslides in the region.
Health Secretary Dr R Rajesh Kumar has been appointed as the in-charge secretary of Rudraprayag district to spearhead these efforts.
Since the sacred doors of Kedarnath Dham, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, opened to devotees on May 10, more than 1.83667 lakh pilgrims from across India and abroad have visited the revered site. The influx of visitors has led to significant traffic congestion on the Yatra route.
Additionally, a huge influx of people has led to long delays on the Gangotri-Yamunotri Highway.
Dr Rajesh after the first round of meetings with Rudraprayag district authorities including administration, police, disaster management, transport and health services, carefully identified key areas that need immediate attention. Thereafter, several review meetings were also held to gauge the preparedness of the administration to handle the large number of devotees effectively.
Disaster management of frequent landslides in the region is the top priority. The irrigation department has JCB machines and other heavy equipment ready to clear landslides quickly like Sirobgadh. These machines are on standby 24/7, with a dedicated team monitoring high-risk areas to respond rapidly and minimize disruptions.
"We are challenged by a large number of devotees in the initial phase of the yatra, but this also presents an opportunity to serve them better through improved planning, preparation, and execution," said Dr Rajesh.
The Rudraprayag District administration, along with the SSP Rudraprayag and other district authorities, have mobilized government manpower to handle the increased influx of vehicles. New parking areas have been created, and existing ones expanded to prevent congestion.
Trained police officers manage traffic flow and assist devotees in finding parking spots efficiently. Helicopter services have been enhanced with clear schedules and booking systems to reduce overcrowding and wait times. Strict safety checks are also in place to ensure safe travel for everyone.
Extra sanitation facilities, including toilets and washing areas, have been set up along the route. A dedicated team regularly cleans and maintains these facilities. To ensure food safety, regular inspections are conducted at eateries and only certified vendors are allowed to operate, ensuring that the food is safe and nutritious.
Medical posts have also been established along the Yatra route, equipped with necessary medical devices and staffed by qualified personnel. Ambulances and emergency medical teams are on standby to provide immediate help if needed. Mules are essential for transporting devotees to Kedarnath. Special veterinary services are provided to keep the mules healthy and fit. Regular check-ups, treatments, and adequate rest and feeding facilities are ensured for the well-being of the mules.