By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 5 May: The Char Dham Yatra, a key contributor to Uttarakhand’s economy, has commenced with great enthusiasm, drawing large numbers of pilgrims from the very first day. Top government officials report that Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is actively monitoring the Yatra preparations across all four Dhams and major stops.
Dhami has become the first Chief Minister to be present at all four Dhams on the day of opening of their portals in the same year.
The Yatra, this year, began on 30 April with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri Dhams. Dhami first visited Gangotri to witness the opening of the portals, followed by Yamunotri, where also he witnessed the opening of the portals and reviewed the Yatra related arrangements. Previously, no Chief Minister was present in Yamunotri on the day of the opening of the portals. In addition, the CM was also present at Kedarnath on 2 May and Badrinath on 4 May at the time of opening of the portals in both the major Dhams, marking the first instance in the state’s history where a CM attended the openings at all four Dhams. The government claims that the CM’s presence helped enhance travel preparations and improve facilities for pilgrims.
Dhami is also overseeing arrangements in Rishikesh, the main entry point and halt for the Char Dham Yatra, directly managing operations claim the officials. He has also been interacting with pilgrims to gather feedback and issuing necessary directives.
The CM has directed officials to remain vigilant regarding weather conditions along the Yatra route. He emphasised that passenger safety should be the top priority in adverse weather and that timely weather updates must be provided to travellers.
