Uttarakhand CM Dhami Focuses on Enhancing Char Dham Yatra Experience

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami convened a meeting with various stakeholders to discuss the safe conduct and infrastructural development of the Char Dham Yatra. Measures include online and offline registration, streamlined travel procedures, and immediate preparations for the next yatra season.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a strategic meeting with priests, officials, hotel associations, tour operators, transporters, and business boards from the Char Dhams at the Secretariat on Saturday. The primary focus was on ensuring the safe conduct of the Char Dham Yatra and discussing the livelihood impact on local residents.

The Chief Minister highlighted the government's collective responsibility to safely manage an increasing number of devotees from both India and abroad. To address this, he announced the continuation of online registration, with additional provisions for offline spot registrations at key points like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and the four Dhams. This move aims to make the pilgrimage accessible to all visitors without numerical restrictions.

The meeting also touched upon reducing the barricading and simplifying the checking process during the yatra. Dhami addressed the mandatory Green Card/Trip Card requirement for out-of-state private vehicles, directing the Transport Department to find a resolution. Preparations for the future yatra season will begin immediately after the conclusion of the current one, involving consultations at district and high-level meetings.

Among other initiatives, the work on the Yamunotri ropeway and road widening projects will be expedited. Plans for a special Ganga-Yamuna Express train circuit, similar to the Kartikeya Express, are in motion. Heli services in Yamunotri are also being considered. Decisions for the smooth operation of the yatra will involve extensive consultations with stakeholders.

Stakeholders expressed gratitude to Dhami for this unprecedented, detailed discussion. They appreciated the inclusiveness and attention to their suggestions, which will be taken into account to ensure a safe and smooth yatra. The Garhwal Commissioner will convene meetings every 15 days to review progress and address issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)