Uttarakhand Suspends VIP Darshan for Char Dham Yatra 2024

The Uttarakhand government has announced the suspension of VIP darshan privileges at the four holy shrines of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath for thefirst15 days of the Char Dham Yatra 2024, starting on May 10. This decision aims to promote equality among pilgrims and ensure a hassle-free experience for all devotees during the pilgrimage, which is expected to witness a record footfall of over 10 lakh pilgrims in the initial 15 days.

Why this matters: The suspension of VIP darshan privileges sets a precedent for prioritizing the needs of ordinary pilgrims, promoting a more inclusive and equal experience for all devotees. This decision also highlights the importance of effective crowd management and infrastructure development in ensuring a safe and successful pilgrimage experience.

Radha Raturi, the Uttarakhand Chief Secretary, has written to the Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories, requesting them to avoid VVIP visits to the Char Dham shrines from May 10 to May 25, 2024. In her letter, Raturi stated,"Over the last few years, the number of pilgrims visiting the Chardham in Uttarakhand has been on a constant rise. This year too, the number of pilgrims in the first 15 days of the Yatra is expected to be over 10 lakh. Considering the exceptionally high footfall, dignitaries and state officials are requested to avoid visiting the dhams during the 10th-25th May 2024 period for the sake of convenience. "latest

The Char Dham Yatra, a significant pilgrimage for followers of the Hindu religion, consists of four sacred destinations: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The pilgrimage starts from Yamunotri, followed by Gangotri, then Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath. Pilgrims can undertake themay, travelChar Dham Yatra by road, air, or train, with the road trip being the most common and preferred mode of transportation.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a meeting on Friday to review the preparations for the yatra. During the meeting, CM Dhami directed officials to ensure proper arrangements for electricity, drinking water, and roads on the travel routes during the yatra. The state administration is working swiftly to complete development and reconstruction projects under the Kedarnath and Badrinath master plans before the commencement of the yatra.

Radha Raturi, accompanied by several state administrative officers, visited both Kedarnath and Badrinath shrines on Thursday to assess the progress of the development and reconstruction projects. She instructed officials to finish all required tasks prior to the opening of the doors of the Kedarnath shrine on May 10 and to use more labor and resources to complete the work on schedule, avoiding any issues for pilgrims.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) conducted a tabletop exercise at the Secretariat auditorium in Dehradun on Tuesday, April 30, to review the ongoing preparations for the yatra. Safety protocols will be implemented to mitigate COVID-19 transmission during the pilgrimage. The Uttarakhand Transport Department has also set up an action plan to establish 28 charging points along the Char Dham pilgrimage route to facilitate electric vehicle travel.

The suspension of VIP darshan privileges for the initial 15 days of the Char Dham Yatra 2024 reflects the Uttarakhand government's commitment to prioritizing the needs and aspirations of ordinary pilgrims. By ensuring equal opportunities for all devotees to participate in the revered yatra, the state aims to promote a sense of unity and community among pilgrims, enhancing the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage.

The Char Dham Yatra 2024 approaches, and the Uttarakhand government's proactive measures demonstrate their dedication to ensuring a smooth, safe, and inclusive pilgrimage experience for all devotees. The suspension of VIP darshan privileges, coupled with the ongoing development and reconstruction projects, sets the stage for a memorable and transformative experience for pilgrims visiting the sacred shrines of Uttarakhand. Radha Raturi's words encapsulate the state's commitment:"I would request your support in making the Chardham Yatra 2024 a memorable experience for all devotees."

Key Takeaways

• Uttarakhand suspends VIP darshan privileges at Char Dham shrines for 15 days to promote equality among pilgrims.
• Over 10 lakh pilgrims expected in the initial 15 days of the yatra, starting May 10.
• State officials requested to avoid VVIP visits to Char Dham shrines from May 10 to May 25.
• Uttarakhand government prioritizes infrastructure development and crowd management for a safe pilgrimage.
• Safety protocols and electric vehicle facilities to be implemented for a smooth yatra experience.