By Arun Pratap Singh
Dehradun, 15 Apr: With merely a fortnight to go for the commencement of the Char Dham Yatra, preparations have been expedited by all the related departments. In order to ensure smooth and safer travel for the pilgrims by commercial vehicles, it has been planned to strictly regulate the operations of the commercial vehicles for the Yatra.
In the past, serious concerns have been raised regarding the misconduct by commercial vehicle drivers during the Yatra, with repeated complaints of overcharging, misbehaviour, and fraudulent practices. In response to these recurring grievances, the Transport Department has adopted a stern posture ahead of this year’s pilgrimage season.
A significant number of private and commercial vehicles operate on the Char Dham routes, with many pilgrims from other states hiring commercial transport to undertake their journey. However, each year there are multiple reports of incidents where drivers have either defrauded or ill-treated passengers.
In light of these issues, the Transport Department has declared that, if any vehicle operator is found guilty of misconduct or cheating pilgrims, their Trip Cards, which authorise operation during the Yatra, would be revoked. Furthermore, the Green Card, which permits broader operation across the pilgrimage route, would also be cancelled. Such punitive measures would disqualify the vehicles concerned from continuing operations on the Yatra paths.
To further streamline operations and curb illegal activities, it has been decided that Trip Cards for commercial vehicles would be issued only a day prior to the scheduled travel date. This measure is intended to reduce unauthorised vehicle activity and minimise passenger complaints.
The forthcoming Char Dham Yatra is expected to witness a significant rise in the number of pilgrims this year. Consequently, a corresponding increase in vehicular traffic is also anticipated. Last year, in 2024, approximately 32,000 vehicles were issued Green Cards. This year, officials estimate that between 35,000 to 40,000 vehicles may be granted the same.
According to the transport officials, the foremost priority would be to ensure the availability of vehicles for all pilgrims undertaking the Yatra. The Transport Department is committed to ensuring that the journey remains safe, seamless, and devoid of malpractice. No pilgrim should face exploitation, excessive fare demands, or last-minute booking cancellations. They further reiterate that the pilgrims must register on the official tourism website, and corresponding arrangements have been integrated into the Trip Card system. Accordingly, Trip Cards would now be issued in alignment with the registered Darshan dates of the pilgrims, and their validity would lapse upon the completion of the Darshan.
