Uttarakhand Implements New Restrictions After 29 Deaths in Char Dham Yatra

Dehradun: In the wake of at least 29 pilgrims losing their lives during the initial nine days of the Char Dham Yatra, authorities in Uttarakhand have taken decisive measures to enhance safety and manage the surge of devotees. Here are the key details:

1. Section 144 Imposed on Yamunotri Dham Walking Route:

• The Uttarkashi district administration has imposed Section 144 on the walking route from Janaki Chatti to Yamunotri. This decision aims to control the crowd gathering at Yamunotri.
• As per the Collector’s order, restrictions have been placed on the number of horses, mules, and pilgrims using sticks along this route.

1. Time Limits and Darshan Rules:

• The number of horses and mules allowed on the Yamunotri pilgrimage route has been fixed at 800.
• Their arrival and departure timings are restricted to between 4 am and 5 pm.
• Each horse or mule is allotted a maximum of five hours to take a passenger from Yamunotri and return after darshan.
• Pilgrims are required to complete the darshan of Yamunotri within 60 minutes of reaching the temple.

1. Crowd Control Measures:

• The surge in devotees during this year’s Chardham Yatra has led to traffic congestion and strained arrangements.
• The narrowness of the Yamunotri footpath posed risks to passengers’ safety.
• The Uttarkashi Collector’s order to implement Section 144 aims to mitigate these challenges.

1. Healthcare Initiatives:

• The Uttarakhand Health Department, in collaboration with the Wadhwani Initiative for Sustainable Healthcare (WISH) Foundation, has launched “eSwasthya Dham.”
• This initiative enhances healthcare and monitoring systems for pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra.
• Pilgrims can access their medical records conveniently through the integrated Char Dham Registration Portal.
• Health assessments will be conducted at screening points along the Char Dham route, with results updated on the “eSwasthya Dham” web app.

1. Record-Breaking Yatra:

• The Char Dham Yatra has broken records this year:
  • Shri Kedarnath Dham opened its doors on May 10.
  • Within 11 days, the number of visitors reached 3.19 lakh.
  • On a single day, a record 37,480 devotees visited the temples.
  • Yamunotri Dham received over 1.38 lakh visitors, Gangotri Dham over 1.25 lakh, and Badrinath Dham 1.39 lakh during this year’s yatra.

The authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims during this sacred journey. However, the recent fatalities underscore the need for continued vigilance and effective management of the Char Dham Yatra.