Tight security arrangements have been made for the soon to start in Uttarakhand in view of the terrorist attack on 22 April in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The journey will begin on Wednesday, May 1. Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Deepam Seth said that about 6000 police, 17 PACs (Provincial Armed Constable) companies and 10 paramilitary forces have been deployed on travel routes in this background.
Intelligence agencies alert
DGP Seth said that SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) personnel will be deployed at more than 65 accidents possible places. In addition, special measures will be taken to ensure smooth traffic flow. Intelligence agencies will also be kept cautious and any suspicious activity will be closely monitored.
More than 60 lakh devotees expected to arrive
About 60 lakh devotees are expected to participate in the Chardham Yatra this year. Last year, 48 lakh devotees came, but the Kedarnath track was damaged due to heavy rains at that time and the journey had to be shut down for more than two weeks.
The doors of Kedarnath will open on May 2, while Badrinath’s doors will open on 4 May.
Chardham Yatra will begin with the opening of the doors of Gangotri and Yamunotri temples in Uttarkashi district. The doors of Kedarnath will be opened on 2 May, while Badrinath’s doors will be opened on 4 May.
2000 CCTV cameras, 15 super zones in travel area
The entire travel route is divided into 15 super zones and more than 2000 CCTV cameras have been installed. In addition, an integrated command center has been set up in the Garhwal range. DGP Seth met the devotees at the transit camp in Rishikesh, knowing their response and assured them of fear -free travel.
Taking photos/videos in the temple is prohibited.
To make Chardham Yatra more systematic and safe, the administration has implemented some new rules in Badrinath Dham this year. Photographs and video calling have been banned in the temple premises. Violation of this rule will be fined Rs 5000. The devotees concerned will be fined Rs 5,000.
