Heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand has resulted in the deaths of over 10 people and damage to infrastructure, including a concrete bridge and footbridge on the Kedarnath route. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has assured continuous relief and rescue efforts, while authorities have issued safety advisories for Chardham Yatra pilgrims.
A helicopter carrying seven people, including pilgrims, made an emergency landing in Uttarakhand’s Kedarnath on Friday after developing a technical snag. The pilot quickly took a decision and landed the chopper safely, averting a major mishap. All occupants, including six pilgrims and the pilot, are safe and sound. The incident occurred around 7 am today, and the pilgrims were able to continue their pilgrimage after the incident. The Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage tour of four holy sites, has commenced this year, with around 26 lakh devotees registered to participate. The Uttarakhand government has extended the ban on VIP darshan until May 31 to ensure equal access for all devotees.
The Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage to the four sacred sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, is set to start on May 10. Thousands of devotees undertake this journey every year to seek blessings at these holy shrines. The pilgrimage begins at Yamunotri, then moves on to Gangotri, continues to Kedarnath, and ends at Badrinath, following a clockwise route. These high-altitude shrines remain closed for about six months each year, opening in the summer (April or May) and closing as winter approaches (October or November). Pilgrims can complete the journey by road or by air, with helicopter services available. Some devotees choose to undertake a Do Dham Yatra, which involves visiting only two shrines—Kedarnath and Badrinath—as outlined on the official website of Uttarakhand Tourism.
