The Uttarakhand government on Saturday confirmed that helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra have been resumed after temporary suspension due to inclement weather. Authorities stated the service is now running smoothly, facilitating pilgrim travel to the holy sites.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed the influx of devotees to the four shrines—Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. “Over one lakh devotees have visited the Char Dhams in the last nine days. We are committed to making their journey smooth, safe, and well-organised,” the CM said.
Highlighting Kedarnath’s sensitive location, CM Dhami noted that enhanced health facilities, including specialist doctors and expanded services, have been made available. “The safety of pilgrims is our top priority,” he reiterated.
The Char Dham Yatra commenced on April 30 with the opening of Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines on Akshaya Tritiya. Kedarnath Dham followed on May 2, and Badrinath’s doors opened on May 4.
Meanwhile, concerns were raised over the health of animals used in the Yatra route. A 24-hour ban was placed on the use of horses and mules following the deaths of 14 animals over two days. “A central team will visit tomorrow to investigate the cause of death,” said BVRC Purushottam, Secretary, Animal Husbandry, Uttarakhand.
In light of Rudraprayag’s disaster-prone geography, the state has also set up a dedicated mobile network for the district, and free WiFi has been made available for pilgrims arriving in Kedarpuri.
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