The revered Char Dham Yatra has commenced, attracting a significant influx of devotees. The portals of Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri were opened on May 10, while Badrinath’s portals were opened on May 12. Since then, a steady stream of pilgrims has embarked on this sacred journey. Over 2.6 million registrations have been made for the Char Dham Yatra, with more than 300,000 devotees having already visited these holy sites. Unfortunately, the journey has also seen the demise of 11 pilgrims so far, with four deaths attributed to underlying health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Many devotees are undertaking the Char Dham Yatra without prior registration, which has resulted in severe traffic congestion on the routes leading to the shrines. Long queues and prolonged waiting periods have become commonplace, and the administrative arrangements appear to be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of pilgrims.
In light of these challenges, Uttarakhand's Chief Secretary, Radha Raturi, has taken significant measures to manage the situation. The ban on VIP darshan has been extended until May 31 to ensure that all devotees, including those stuck in long queues and expressing their frustrations, can have a fair opportunity for darshan. Additionally, new regulations have been implemented prohibiting videography, photography, and the creation of social media reels within a 50-meter radius of the Char Dham temples.
These measures are part of an effort to maintain the sanctity and smooth operation of the pilgrimage. Notices have been sent to the tourism secretary, the commissioner of the Garhwal division, district magistrates, and police superintendents to enforce these restrictions. Devotees found violating these rules within the designated area will face administrative action.
Pilgrims planning to embark on the Char Dham Yatra are advised to consider postponing their trip due to the current difficulties. Those who proceed should ensure they complete the mandatory registration process. The influx of unregistered visitors is a major factor contributing to the disarray and difficulties faced during the pilgrimage.
Key Points for Pilgrims to Consider
Registration: Ensure you have completed the registration process before embarking on the Char Dham Yatra. Unregistered pilgrims are contributing to congestion and administrative challenges.
Travel Information: Stay informed about the latest travel conditions and administrative updates by maintaining regular contact with officials. This will help you navigate any disruptions and plan your journey effectively.
Transportation: Opt for public transport where possible. The primary cause of traffic jams is the excessive number of private vehicles on the narrow mountain roads. Utilizing public transport can alleviate this issue and make the journey smoother for everyone.
Journey Pace: Avoid rushing through your journey. Proceed with patience and caution, and regularly check for updates on the conditions at your next destination.
Respect and Decorum: Remember that Char Dham is not a recreational spot but one of the most sacred sites in Sanatan Dharma. Maintain the sanctity of the location, avoid creating social media content within the temple precincts, and refrain from causing any disturbances.
Compliance with Authorities: Follow the instructions of the officials and police personnel deployed for your safety. Their guidance is crucial in managing the pilgrimage effectively. Recently, an appeal was made to halt the journey temporarily due to overcrowding at Yamunotri, but the disregard for this advice led to a breakdown in the administrative system.
By adhering to these guidelines and respecting the measures in place, pilgrims can contribute to a smoother and more spiritually fulfilling Char Dham Yatra for everyone involved.
Leave Your Comment