Rudraprayag: Post-monsoon, more helicopter companies will provide Heli-services in Kedarnath. During monsoon season, the helicopter services slow down receiving lesser booking, but, expecting the increased inflow of pilgrims after the rainy season, five more helicopter companies will also start providing the Heli-services from September 15. Currently, four helicopter companies are providing services in Kedarnath.
Through the helicopters, around 250 passengers are visiting the Kedarnath shrine every day. Since the Char Dham yatra commenced this year in Uttarakhand on 10 May, around 1114230 pilgrims have visited the revered Kedarnath shrine so far.
Sonprayag-Gaurikund highway reopens for small vehicles after 39 days
After the Kedarnath cloudburst incident in Kedarnath valley on 31 July, the Sonprayag-Gaurikund highway was severely damaged at various places halting the vehicular movement for 38 days. On Sunday, this route was reopened for small vehicles after repair work done by NH, BRO, and PWD in the last month. So far, this path was available for pedestrians only.
Locals heaved a sigh of relief
With the reopening of the highway, both locals and pilgrims heading to Kedarnath have breathed a sigh of relief. NH Executive Engineer Nirbhay Singh informed that after considerable effort, the highway is now open for small vehicles. On Sunday afternoon, small vehicles were allowed to travel between Sonprayag and Gaurikund. However, the route remains sensitive in several areas. Mud before the Munkatiya and Gaurikund bridges is still causing difficulties for vehicles.
Increased inflow of pilgrim in the last leg of monsoon
As the monsoon season in the state is in the last leg, all the four Char Dham shrines have witnessed a considerable growth in the pilgrim’s footfall. Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC) president, Ajendra Ajay expressed his happiness over the increasing influx of devotees. He said in a press note, “After monsoon there is an unexpected increase in the number of devotees in Badrinath and Kedarnath shrines.”
