Dehradun: The Winter Char Dham Yatra is in full swing in Uttarakhand, with authorities making elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of this popular pilgrimage. So far, 15,314 devotees have visited the Char Dham this winter.
However, worsening weather conditions, including rain and snowfall, are presenting challenges for both pilgrims and authorities. Due to these weather conditions, devotees are experiencing some difficulties. In response, the disaster management department has issued a detailed advisory for the Winter Char Dham Yatra.
In the last 24 hours, 908 pilgrims visited these winter shrines
In the last 24 hours, 908 devotees visited the religious sites, with 364 visiting Pandukeshwar (Badrinath), 518 in Omkareshwar (Kedarnath), 18 in Mukhwa (Gangotri), and 08 in Kharsali (Yamunotri). According to the State Emergency Operations Center, the winter pilgrimage to Kharsali, the winter residence of Yamunotri Dham, began on November 4, and 614 devotees have visited so far. The winter pilgrimage to Mukhwa, the residence of Gangotri Dham, also started on November 4, with 3,114 devotees having visited to date.
Highest footfall in Omkareshwar, Kedarnath winter seat
Similarly, the pilgrimage to Omkareshwar, the residence of Kedarnath Dham, began on November 24. A total of 6482 devotees have visited Omkareshwar to date. The pilgrimage to Pandukeshwar, the residence of Badrinath Dham, started on December 9. A total of 5,104 devotees have visited Pandukeshwar to date.
Authorities advised regular health check-ups and doctors’ consultations
Considering the changing weather conditions in Uttarakhand, authorities have advised pilgrims embarking on the Winter Char Dham Yatra to take health-related precautions. The disaster management department warned that traveling to high altitudes during the yatra can cause issues like high altitude sickness. They recommended regular health check-ups and consultations with doctors before the journey. As colds and flu are common in cold weather, pilgrims are advised to travel with warm clothing, cough and cold medicines, and a hot water bottle. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking enough water, especially when traveling to high-altitude areas. Pilgrims are urged to consult doctors immediately if they experience chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, confusion, or vomiting. Additionally, they are advised to consume warm and nutritious food.
Follow the weather forecast before embarking upon journey
The disaster management department has also asked the passengers not to travel before having proper information about weather conditions in the area. Amid rains and heavy snowfall many routes in Uttarakhand are blocked so pilgrims have been advised by authorities to collect information about the condition of the route and the weather from the local administration. Emergency situations may arise during snowfall or bad weather during the yatra.
Emphasis on registration
In its advisory, the Disaster Department has stressed the importance of registering for the Winter Char Dham Yatra. According to the guidelines, both visitors and their vehicles must be registered. This measure is to help authorities track travelers and provide assistance in case of emergencies. Pilgrims are urged to follow local administration guidelines to avoid accidents during their journey.
