By Our Staff Reporter
Chamoli, 15 Apr: Chamoli district administration has intensified preparations for the Badrinath Dham Yatra. Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Vivek Prakash today conducted a comprehensive field inspection of construction works underway at Badrinath Dham and along the National Highway from Chamoli to Badrinath. During the inspection, the ADM instructed officials of the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL) to ensure the completion of security measures and highway repairs ahead of the Yatra.
The inspection covered construction works in Kshetrapal, Chhinka, Birahi Chada, Bhanerpani, Pagalnala, Langsi Dhar, and Patalganga landslide zones. On the occasion, Prakash directed NHIDCL officials to fully operationalise the Badrinath Highway by 30 April. Specific focus was placed on smooth drainage management at Pagalnala and the near-completion of tunnel construction in Patalganga. The widening of the highway and installation of safety nets in landslide-prone areas such as Kshetrapal are being expedited. The removal of boulders and stones at locations such as Birhi Chada was also instructed by the ADM.
During the inspection in Badrinath Dham, PIU officials claimed that construction of 16 pilgrim residences is nearing completion, after which the administration will allot these as per the rules. Other residential constructions are progressing rapidly. Additionally, the improvement works of Kuber Gali, Brahma Kapal, Darshan Line, the River Front, drinking water pipelines, and sewer lines were reviewed.
ADM Prakash also instructed officials to install sturdy railings at Brahma Kapal and Gandhi Ghat for additional safety, along with iron chains in the Alaknanda River. He also directed the disposal of debris at Brahma Kapal to streamline the river’s flow and address challenges arising from elevated water levels. The proposed bypass construction near Badrish Lake was also inspected, with necessary actions directed.
Emphasising the importance of internal road improvements, the ADM also instructed officials to ensure smooth movement by 25 April to assist locals in completing pre-Yatra preparations. A 40-member team from the Nagar Panchayat is actively engaged in improving footpaths and restoring toilets to optimal functionality.
