The Kedarnath Yatra recommenced following a brief pause caused by heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand. Pilgrim movement resumed as weather conditions improved and operations resumed on the Kedarnath trekking route post the rainfall cessation. In case of deteriorating weather later, pilgrims will be advised to seek shelter at nearby safe locations until conditions ameliorate.
Earlier, the Kedarnath Yatra was temporarily halted after an orange alert was issued by the weather department due to intense rainfall. Rudraprayag District Magistrate (DM) Vishal Mishra mentioned that the region encountered overnight rainfall. He informed about the orange alert for the day and a yellow alert for the following day due to the prevailing weather conditions. Efforts are being made to ensure the safety of all pilgrims, with teams monitoring the situation closely.
Officials in landslide-prone areas like Sonprayag and Gaurikund were directed to prevent pilgrims from proceeding until weather conditions improved. However, once the weather cleared, pilgrims stationed at safe locations were allowed to continue their journey. Helicopter services were temporarily halted due to heavy rainfall and fog, while holding areas in plain regions like Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar have been set up to accommodate devotees with basic amenities.
Feedback from pilgrims is being considered to enhance the pilgrimage experience, with a focus on crowd management at the temple premises. Measures like implementing a token system at the temple and addressing issues caused by anti-social elements disrupting pilgrims are being undertaken. Inspections are ongoing, and ‘ponywalas’ not adhering to norms are being blacklisted. Adequate seating arrangements and holding areas are being arranged for pilgrims arriving by helicopters.
