By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 25 Mar: Preparations for the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand have intensified, generating a wave of enthusiasm across the state. The Government has claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Mukhwa and Harsil has created a positive atmosphere, boosting the spirits of devotees and promoting the Yatra on a grand scale. This year, as compared to last year, the pilgrimage will commence ten days earlier on 30 April, offering an extended duration compared to previous years.
The government has asserted that an early start to the Yatra this year is expected to accommodate more pilgrims, as indicated by the overwhelming response during registrations. Recognising the surge in interest, the state government is prioritising crowd management and enhancing facilities.
PM Modi’s visit to Mukhwa, the winter abode of Ganga, and the tourist destination of Harsil, on 6 March, earlier this month, has set the tone for the Yatra. His visit marked the first time a Prime Minister arrived in Uttarakhand just days before the Char Dham Yatra’s start. Though initially centered on the winter Yatra, Modi’s presence also underscored the significance of the upcoming Char Dham pilgrimage, highlighting the growth in the number of devotees over the last decade.
The portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines will open on 30 April, the portals of Kedarnath will open on 2 May while the portals of Badrinath shrine will open on 4 May.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed confidence in the state’s preparations, noting that Uttarakhand’s travel infrastructure continues to attract pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Dhami stressed that the PM’s efforts in promoting the Yatra and reassuring devotees of the state’s commitment to providing enhanced facilities for a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
