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Uttarakhand Preps Firewood Plan for Char Dham Yatra Amid LPG Crisis Fears

The Uttarkashi district administration has formulated an alternative fuel plan to safeguard food arrangements for the upcoming Char Dham Yatra against a potential LPG shortage. This plan involves utilizing firewood and coal for kitchens along the pilgrimage routes if regular gas supply is disrupted. The Forest Development Corporation is activating wood depots and establishing new distribution centers at strategic points like Janakichatti and Gangotri. Officials emphasize that pilgrim safety and convenience are the top priority, with coordinated efforts to ensure seamless fuel distribution.

Key Points: Uttarakhand's Alternative Fuel Plan for Char Dham Yatra

  • Alternative fuel plan for pilgrimage
  • Firewood depots at key routes
  • Geopolitical tensions threaten LPG supply
  • Ensuring uninterrupted food for pilgrims
2 min read

Uttarakhand: Administration readies alternative plan amid feared gas crisis ahead of Char Dham Yatra

Uttarkashi administration prepares firewood & coal plan to ensure pilgrim food supply amid potential LPG shortage from West Asia tensions.

Uttarakhand: Administration readies alternative plan amid feared gas crisis ahead of Char Dham Yatra
"kitchens along the pilgrimage route... will be supported through the use of firewood and coal - District Administration"

Uttarkashi, April 3

With the Char Dham Yatra approaching, the administration in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi has gone into alert mode amid concerns over a possible shortage of cooking gas. In view of ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia and Gulf countries that could disrupt LPG supply, the district administration has prepared an alternative fuel plan to ensure uninterrupted food arrangements for pilgrims and local businesses.

Under the chairmanship of District Magistrate Prashant Arya, a meeting was held on Friday to review preparations for the upcoming Char Dham Yatra, which is scheduled to begin on April 19. The meeting focused on ensuring a smooth, safe and well-organised journey, particularly for the Yamunotri and Gangotri routes.

Officials said that in case of any disruption in LPG supply, kitchens along the pilgrimage route, including hotels, dhabas and other eateries, will be supported through the use of firewood and coal. The administration has emphasised that adequate stock and timely distribution of alternative fuel will be maintained to avoid any inconvenience to pilgrims.

The Forest Development Corporation has been tasked with keeping existing wood depots operational at key locations such as Purola market, Barkot market, Chinyalisaur (Dharasu bridge), Uttarkashi market near Kedar Temple, and Bhattwadi Road. In addition, new firewood distribution centres are being set up at strategic points along the yatra route, including Janakichatti, Damta, Brahmkhal, Netala, Harsil, and Gangotri.

Authorities have directed sub-divisional magistrates and supply inspectors to ensure the immediate availability of fuel at designated locations. The municipal body has also been instructed to expand storage capacity at the Dharasu bridge wood depot in Chinyalisaur to handle increased demand during the pilgrimage season.

Coordination between the Forest Department, Forest Corporation and Supply Department has been strengthened to maintain a seamless supply chain. Officials said financial and logistical arrangements have been clarified to ensure transparency and avoid disruptions in distribution.

District officials reiterated that the safety, comfort and convenience of pilgrims remain the top priority. Senior officials present at the meeting, including Chief Development Officer Jai Bharat Singh and Disaster Management official Jai Panwar, were asked to ensure the timely execution of all arrangements on the ground.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Firewood and coal? While I appreciate the effort, this seems like a step backwards environmentally. The smoke from all those kitchens will be terrible for the pristine Himalayan air. Couldn't they explore solar or electric alternatives for at least some locations?
A
Aman W
The geopolitical situation is really affecting us at home. It's wise to have a Plan B. My parents are going on the yatra this year, and this news gives me some peace of mind. Jai Bharat Singh and team, please ensure no last-minute hiccups!
S
Sarah B
As a frequent traveler to India, I'm impressed by the detailed logistical planning. Identifying specific markets and setting up new centers shows they've thought this through. Coordination between departments is key. Hope it works seamlessly for the pilgrims.
V
Vikram M
This is classic jugaad! When modern supply chains are threatened, go back to the basics that have worked for centuries. Firewood kitchens might even add to the authentic pilgrimage experience for some. Just hope the Forest Department manages the wood supply sustainably.
K
Kavya N
The real test will be on the ground in remote places like Harsil and Gangotri. Plans made in Uttarkashi need to reach there effectively. Fingers crossed for all the bhakts. Har Har Mahadev! 🚩

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