Char Dham Yatra 2026: CM Dhami directs 'Green, Clean' pilgrimage

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami reviewed Char Dham Yatra-2026 preps, stressing a 'Green, Clean' and plastic-free pilgrimage. He ordered strict action against rumours, enhanced helicopter safety, and improved amenities for pilgrims.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami chaired a high-level review meeting on Thursday at the Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali Auditorium, Vishwakarma Bhawan, Secretariat, to assess preparations for the Char Dham Yatra-2026. The Chief Minister directed officials to implement last year's 'Green and Clean Char Dham Yatra' campaign more effectively this time.

Green Yatra and Public Engagement

According to the Chief Minister's Office, he instructed that the yatra be made plastic-free by installing an adequate number of collection boxes along the routes and strictly controlling the use of plastic. He also warned that any attempt to spread misinformation or rumours regarding the Char Dham Yatra would lead to immediate FIRs and strict action. Emphasising public participation, he called for active involvement of local bodies, voluntary organisations, and youth to transform the yatra into a mass movement.

Pilgrim Safety and Services

Helicopter and Weather Monitoring

Regarding helicopter services, the Chief Minister issued strict instructions to ensure full compliance with SOPs, mandatory regular maintenance and fitness checks of all helicopters, and adequate rest intervals to avoid operational overloading. He also directed officials to further strengthen the weather-based real-time monitoring system to effectively deal with emergencies.

Beautification and Pilgrim Experience

Instructions were given to develop attractive selfie points and theme-based installations at key locations, along with improving cleanliness, beautification, and signage along the yatra routes.

Supply and Healthcare Management

As per the release on supply management, the Chief Minister clearly stated that there should be no shortage of essential commodities such as gas, petrol, diesel, and other necessities along the route. District supply officers will be made responsible, and separate nodal officers will be appointed to ensure daily monitoring.

To strengthen healthcare services, he directed that adequate medical units and temporary hospitals be set up along the routes as required. He also instructed an increase in veterinary facilities for animals. Additionally, emphasis was laid on ensuring sufficient availability of clean drinking water through CSR and other resources.

Crowd Control and Pilgrim Amenities

Prioritising the convenience of pilgrims, the Chief Minister ordered the development of basic amenities such as toilets, shelters, and other facilities. He stressed the need for effective slot management and crowd control systems, along with real-time digital monitoring, to minimise waiting time for drshn (darshan). He also directed that the online registration system be further strengthened, with additional booths at crowded registration centres and simplification of the digital process.

Security, Traffic, and Disaster Preparedness

Surveillance and Law Enforcement

From a security perspective, CCTV cameras should remain fully operational across the route, and AI-based surveillance systems should be implemented where necessary. Enhanced monitoring at sensitive locations and continuous supervision from control rooms were also emphasised.

Taking a firm stance on law and order, the Chief Minister instructed adequate deployment of police and home guards at key routes, intersections, and markets. He also directed that traffic congestion must be avoided through an effective traffic management plan, and alternative routes should be identified to ensure that local residents are not inconvenienced.

Disaster Management

Regarding disaster management, he directed the prior identification of vulnerable areas and deployment of necessary resources. Better coordination among SDRF, NDRF, and local administration was emphasised, along with keeping 24x7 control rooms and helplines active for prompt emergency response.

Administrative and Regulatory Directives

The Chief Minister also instructed regular review meetings during the yatra period to monitor progress and implement immediate corrective measures based on past experiences. He stressed the timely repair of potholes and the maintenance of road conditions. Referring to disputes related to community food services (bhandaras) last year, he directed the administration to establish coordination between locals and pilgrims to find a permanent solution. Strict action against overpricing was also ordered, with mandatory display of rate lists at all shops.

On transportation, he instructed that all vehicles must have valid fitness certificates, green cards, and trip cards. He also directed the supply department to ensure the uninterrupted availability of LPG, kerosene, petrol, and diesel along the Char Dham Yatra routes.

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