Uttarakhand CM Dhami seeks uninterrupted LPG supply for Char Dham Yatra, flags disaster preparedness needs

Dhami reiterated that Uttarakhand’s economy is largely dependent on tourism, with Char Dham Yatra central to the state’s cultural identity, spiritual heritage, and economic activity.

PM Narendra Modi extended greetings on the Char Dham Yatra, calling it a divine celebration of faith, unity and India’s traditions. He urged pilgrims to follow five resolutions: maintain cleanliness, avoid single-use plastic, support local products, and observe discipline during the journey; the state has aligned preparations with these goals, emphasising a green yatra and improved infrastructure.

Officials reported over 20 lakh registrations for Char Dham Yatra this year, with more than 63,000 pilgrims visiting Kedarnath in the first two days. Measures to manage the surge include online registration, token-based darshan, shuttle services in landslide-prone areas, and real-time information displays along the route. There is a ban on mobile phones, videography, and drones within 70 metres of temple premises; police have registered FIRs against misinformation and monitoring continues around the clock.

Dhami met Union petroleum and natural gas minister Hardeep Singh Puri at Kartavya Bhavan, New Delhi, and urged uninterrupted supply of commercial LPG cylinders during Char Dham Yatra. He requested supply at 100% levels and an additional 5% allocation for disaster response (about 48,397 cylinders), citing difficult terrain and monsoon-related risks.

Kedarnath shrine was ceremonially opened amid Vedic chants, with temple decorations using nearly 15 quintals of flowers; CM Dhami attended and said the arrangements were well-organised and darshan was completed in a relatively short time.

Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines were opened for the Char Dham Yatra, happening on Akshaya Tritiya, marking the early phase of the pilgrimage season.