U'khand CM reviews Char Dham Yatra preparations Home ministry assesses safety readiness

     Dehradun, Apr 16 (PTI) Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reached Rudraprayag on Thursday to review arrangements for the upcoming Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, which is set to begin on April 19. The Union home ministry also held a meeting with state officials in this regard.
     The pilgrimage begins on the occasion of Akshay Tritiya with the opening of Gangotri and Yamunotri temples in the Uttarkashi district. The gates of Kedarnath in Rudraprayag will open on April 22, followed by Badrinath in Chamoli on April 23.
     The chief minister travelled by road from Rudraprayag to Guptkashi on NH-107 to assess arrangements for pilgrims' movement.
     Dhami later chaired a review meeting in Guptkashi. He directed officials to complete all pending infrastructure works before the yatra commences.
     The chief minister placed special emphasis on making the pilgrimage plastic-free, stating that the goal of a 'Green Yatra' should be given priority.
     On the issue of gas supply, Dhami said that despite global challenges, a request has been made to the central government for additional gas supply so that there is no inconvenience during the pilgrimage.
     He also instructed that women from self-help groups be linked to the yatra, promoting local products under the 'Vocal for Local' initiative and strengthening their economic condition.
     In addition, arrangements such as drinking water, lighting and other essential facilities along pedestrian routes were reviewed to ensure that pilgrims do not face any difficulties.
     In a separate meeting, MHA Additional Secretary Anuj Sharma reviewed disaster management protocols with state officials. He issued directives to ensure a smooth and safe journey for devotees.
     Sharma instructed officials to establish proper transit shelters if the yatra requires temporary suspension during emergencies. He emphasised providing regular updates on health services, traffic management, and security to pilgrims.
     Focusing on the safety of helicopter services, Sharma said only pilots with adequate experience of flying in valley regions should be deployed, and they must be well acquainted with local geographical and weather conditions.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)