Rishikesh administration reviews monsoon preparedness as Char Dham Yatra second phase begins
Rishikesh, June 5
Amid a surge in pilgrim arrivals for the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, the Rishikesh administration on Friday held a review meeting to assess pre-monsoon preparedness and strengthen facilities for devotees as the second phase of the pilgrimage commenced.
Speaking to ANI, Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Sunil Kumar Meena said the administration reviewed arrangements aimed at ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims during the monsoon season.
He said multiple security agencies, including the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), State Police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), have been deployed along the Yatra route
"The second phase of our Char Dham Yatra has begun. Preparations are underway for the monsoon, and a large number of pilgrims are arriving. In light of this, we held discussions to assess how we can provide better facilities to pilgrims. Soon, we will implement our plans and provide better facilities to pilgrims... We have the CAPF, our own force, and the SDRF. All forces are on duty. Furthermore, ATS teams are also deployed, so we are fully confident about the security arrangements," he said.
Meena also urged pilgrims to adhere to the guidelines issued by the administration and download the Sachet mobile application for real-time weather updates.
"Our journey is proceeding safely. Pilgrims are requested to follow the instructions given by the administration and download the Sachet app so you can get instant weather information on your mobile," Meena said.
According to the latest pilgrimage figures, 1,050,670 devotees have visited Kedarnath Dham and offered prayers to Baba Kedar so far. Similarly, 832,903 pilgrims have paid obeisance to Lord Badri Vishal at Badrinath Dham.
Meanwhile, the (BKTC) has urged pilgrims to make necessary preparations before undertaking the journey, especially in view of the approaching monsoon season. The committee has advised devotees to complete their registration in advance, carry adequate warm clothing, arrange accommodation beforehand, and check weather conditions before beginning their pilgrimage.
BKTC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sohan Singh urged visitors to complete their registration before starting the journey. He also advised them to carry adequate warm clothing due to the prevailing cold weather in the region.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Over 10 lakh devotees at Kedarnath already! 🙏 The Sachet app sounds useful for real-time weather alerts, but many pilgrims from rural areas won't have smartphones or internet access. We need on-ground announcements too, through loudspeakers at key stops.
Deployment of CAPF, SDRF, and ATS is reassuring for security, but in the mountains, landslides and flash floods are the real threats during monsoon. I hope the disaster response teams are also equipped for medical emergencies and not just law and order.
It's heartening to see such large numbers visiting these holy shrines, but the BKTC's advice to carry warm clothing and book accommodation in advance is crucial. Many pilgrims ignore these basics and then face hardships. The administration should enforce registration strictly.
Respect to the IG for his confidence in security arrangements, but I hope the review meeting also discussed crowd management at narrow mountain passes. Single-lane roads and huge queues can be dangerous during rains. Better traffic planning is needed, not just more personnel.
Every year similar announcements, but the ground reality remains chaotic. Let's hope this time the 'Sachet' app actually works and doesn't crash under load. Also, why no mention of medical camps or helipads for emergencies? These are basic for such a massive yatra.
S We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.