Uttarakhand Government Suspends Chardham Yatra for Two Days Amid Heavy Rain Forecast

Dehradun, India (October 26, 2023): The Uttarakhand government has announced the suspension of the Chardham Yatra for two days, starting from October 27, 2023, due to an impending heavy rainfall forecast. This decision prioritizes the safety of pilgrims and ensures smooth operations during the pilgrimage season.

Why the Suspension?

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall warning for Uttarakhand, predicting intense precipitation across various districts, including the Chardham pilgrimage route. This heightened rainfall risk presents potential hazards like landslides, road closures, and riverine flooding, making it unsafe for pilgrims to travel and stay in the region.

Previous Instances:

This is not the first time the Uttarakhand government has suspended the Chardham Yatra due to weather concerns. In 2022, the pilgrimage was temporarily halted several times due to heavy rainfall and landslides. This proactive measure has proven effective in minimizing risks and ensuring the safety of the thousands of pilgrims who embark on the journey each year.

Impact on Pilgrims:

The suspension affects all pilgrims who have booked their travel plans for October 27 and 28, 2023. The government has advised pilgrims to postpone their journey and avoid traveling to the Chardham region during this period. Authorities are working to ensure the safe return of any pilgrims already present in the area.

What’s Next?

The government will continue to monitor the weather situation closely and make further decisions regarding the resumption of the Chardham Yatra based on the IMD’s forecast. Updates will be shared through official channels, including the websites of the Uttarakhand Tourism Department and the Chardham Devasthanam Board.

Safety First:

The decision to suspend the Chardham Yatra highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims. The suspension is a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage experience for everyone.

Keywords: Chardham Yatra, Uttarakhand, heavy rain, IMD, pilgrimage, safety, suspension, Dehradun, Chardham Devasthanam Board, Uttarakhand Tourism Department