Char Dham Yatra ’24: Over 29,000 Devotees Pay Obeisance at Kedarnath Dham on First Day of Pilgrimage

The revered Char Dham Yatra in Devbhoomi commenced this month, witnessing an extraordinary turnout of 29,000 devotees on its opening day. Starting in Uttarakhand on May 10, the pilgrimage saw bustling activity across all three Dhams—Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s directives, comprehensive arrangements were made to ensure smooth operations at Kedarnath Dham, including its footpaths, highways, and helipads. A dedicated Yatra Control Room, equipped with CCTV surveillance, operates round-the-clock, promptly addressing passenger concerns lodged on the helpline.

Supervised by the Chief Minister, approximately 125 CCTV cameras were strategically installed to monitor devotee movement during the yatra. There’s a heightened focus on cleanliness and healthcare at Kedarnath, with increased sanitation personnel deployed this year. Essential amenities such as drinking water points and health camps are strategically placed along the travel route to cater to devotees’ needs promptly. Government officials remain vigilant throughout the journey to preempt any potential disruptions.

The pilgrimage season commenced with rituals dedicated to Prime Minister Modi at Kedarnath Dham, with Chief Minister Dhami leading the inaugural puja, invoking safe travels and spiritual fulfilment for all pilgrims. As the gates of Baba Kedarnath Dham opened amidst sacred chants, devotees resonated with fervent cries of ‘Har Har Mahadev,’ embarking on a divine odyssey. Adorned with 40 quintals of petals, Kedarnath exuded celestial allure, beckoning countless devotees to its divine embrace.

The Char Dham Yatra, steeped in profound Hindu spiritual significance, offers a journey of devotion and introspection through Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, culminating in spiritual rejuvenation and divine communion.