In response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Uttarakhand government has heightened security measures for the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, a revered pilgrimage that attracts thousands of devotees each year. The decision to enhance security protocols comes on the heels of India's recent military operations targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered officials to implement comprehensive safety measures throughout the state. He emphasized the need to bolster security not only for the Char Dham Yatra but also for critical infrastructure and border areas. "Strong security arrangements should be made in all areas adjoining the international borders of the state and suspicious activities should be kept under strict surveillance," Dhami stated.
The Char Dham Yatra encompasses four sacred sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. In an effort to ensure the safety of pilgrims, the Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) Abhinav Kumar confirmed the establishment of seasonal police stations at each of these Dhams. "We have deployed forces separately at all Char Dhams, especially during the Yatra. A seasonal police station is opened at Shree Badrinath Temple and a seasonal police station is opened at Kedarnath Temple, Gangotri, and Yamunotri," Kumar noted.
In addition to the police presence, arrangements are being made for CCTV installations to monitor the movement of all pilgrims. This is part of a broader initiative to maintain security along the entire pilgrimage route, which has seen the establishment of 26 medical response points and 50 screening stations. The Health Dham Portal now mandates registration for all pilgrims, particularly enhancing requirements for those over 50 years of age. Plans also include tracking high-risk pilgrims using RFID bands and the GIO Tracking System to ensure swift medical response when necessary.
As tensions between India and Pakistan continue to rise, the situation has prompted further security measures along the India-Nepal border, particularly in the Pithoragarh and Champawat districts. Police and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) teams are actively patrolling the border regions of Dharchula, Jauljibi, Baluakot, Jhoolaghat, and Askot to prevent any potential security threats. Pithoragarh Superintendent of Police Rekha Yadav confirmed that they have increased the number of patrolling teams in collaboration with the SSB and intensified checks at entry points on major bridges along the border.
Despite the heightened security, Champawat Superintendent of Police Ajay Ganpati reassured the public that there are no restrictions on traveling to or from Nepal. However, he acknowledged that checks at entry points have been intensified. "Though there is no restriction on travelling to Nepal or from Nepal to India, checking at the entry points on the border has been intensified," Ganpati stated.
In a related development, the Char Dham Yatra helicopter service has been suspended due to the increasing tensions. This decision, effective immediately as of May 10, 2025, follows orders from Delhi. The suspension of the helicopter service is expected to significantly impact pilgrims traveling to Kedarnath.
This decision comes after a tragic incident on May 8, 2025, when a private helicopter heading towards the Gangotri temple crashed near the River Bhagirathi in Uttarkashi district, resulting in the deaths of six people, including five women and the 60-year-old pilot. One individual sustained grievous injuries in the crash.
Uttarakhand authorities are taking additional steps to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens and pilgrims alike. Chief Minister Dhami has directed that life-saving medicines, surgical equipment, and other essential medical resources be made readily available in all state hospitals. The Food and Civil Supplies Department has also been instructed to ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential food items, rations, and drinking water.
Furthermore, relief and rescue teams are on standby, prepared to respond promptly in case of emergencies. Dhami has emphasized the importance of providing accurate information to the public and has urged authorities to monitor social media to counter misinformation. "People should be provided with correct and authentic information so that rumors do not spread," he stated, calling for strict action against those disseminating false information online.
As the Char Dham Yatra continues under these heightened security measures, the government remains vigilant, ensuring that the spiritual journey of the pilgrims is not only meaningful but also safe amidst the backdrop of regional tensions.
