Uttarakhand CM Dhami reviews Char Dham Yatra 2026 preparations | India News
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami presided over a high-level review meeting to assess the preparations for Chardham Yatra-2026 at Bir Chandra Singh Garhwali Auditorium, Vishwakarma Bhavan, Secretariat on Thursday.The Chief Minister has directed the officials to implement the last year’s ‘Sbuj O Nichni Char Dham Yatra’ campaign more effectively this time. According to the chief minister’s office, he directed that the journey be made plastic-free by installing adequate number of collection boxes on the routes and strictly controlling the use of plastic. He also warned that any attempt to spread misinformation or rumors about the Char Dham Yatra would attract an immediate FIR and strict action.Emphasizing public participation, he called for the active participation of local bodies, voluntary organizations and youth to transform the yatra into a mass movement.Regarding helicopter services, the Chief Minister issued strict instructions to ensure full compliance of SOPs, mandatory regular maintenance and fitness checks of all helicopters and adequate rest breaks to avoid operational overloading.He directed the officials to strengthen the weather-based real-time monitoring system to effectively deal with emergencies. Directions were given to improve cleanliness, beautification and signage along the yatra route as well as create attractive selfie points and theme-based installations at important locations.According to the supply management release, the Chief Minister has clearly stated that there should be no shortage of gas, petrol, diesel and other essential items along the route. District supply officers will be made responsible, and separate nodal officers will be appointed to ensure day-to-day monitoring.To strengthen health care, he directed that adequate medical units and temporary hospitals be set up along the routes as required. He also directed to increase veterinary facilities for animals. Additionally, emphasis was placed on ensuring adequate availability of clean drinking water through CSR and other resources.Prioritizing the convenience of the pilgrims, the Chief Minister directed the development of basic facilities like toilets, shelters and other facilities. He emphasized the need for effective slot management and crowd control system with real-time digital monitoring to reduce waiting time for drshn (visit).He also directed that online registration system be strengthened, additional booths at crowded registration centers and simplification of digital process. From a security perspective, CCTV cameras should be fully operational throughout the route, and AI-based surveillance systems should be implemented where necessary. Increased monitoring at sensitive locations and continuous supervision from the control room is also emphasized.Taking a firm stance on law and order, the Chief Minister ordered deployment of adequate police and home guards on main routes, junctions and markets.He also directed that congestion should be avoided through an effective traffic management plan and alternative routes should be identified to ensure that local residents are not inconvenienced.On disaster management, he directed early identification of vulnerable areas and deployment of necessary resources. Better coordination between SDRF, NDRF and local administration was emphasized along with keeping 24×7 control room and helpline active for quick emergency response.The Chief Minister ordered regular review meetings during the yatra to monitor progress and implement immediate corrective measures based on past experience. He emphasized on timely repair of potholes and maintenance of road condition.Referring to the Community Food Service (Vanders) dispute last year, he directed the administration to coordinate between locals and pilgrims for a permanent solution. Strict action against overcharging was also ordered, with mandatory display of rate lists in all shops.In terms of transport, he directed that all vehicles must have a valid fitness certificate, green card and trip card. He directed the supply department to ensure uninterrupted availability of LPG, kerosene, petrol and diesel on the Chardham Yatra route.
