Uttarakhand CM Dhami reviews preparations for Char Dham Yatra 2026

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the preparations for Char Dham Yatra-2026 at the Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali Auditorium at Vishwakarma Bhawan, Secretariat.The Chief Minister directed the officials to implement last year’s Green Clean Char Dham Yatra more effectively this year. According to the chief minister’s office, he directed the installation of adequate number of collection boxes along the route and strict control over the use of plastic to make the pilgrimage plastic-free. He also warned that any attempt to spread misinformation or rumors about Char Dham Yatra will result in immediate FIR and stern action.He emphasized public participation and called on local agencies, voluntary organizations and youth to actively participate in transforming the pilgrimage into a mass movement.Regarding helicopter services, the Chief Minister issued strict instructions to ensure full compliance with standard operating procedures, mandatory periodic maintenance and health checks on all helicopters, and adequate rest periods to avoid operational overloading.He also instructed officials to further strengthen the real-time weather monitoring system to effectively respond to emergencies. Directed to develop attractive selfie spots and themed facilities at key locations while improving cleaning, beautification and signage along the pilgrim route.According to a supply management release, the Chief Minister made it clear that there should be no shortage of essential commodities like gas, petrol, diesel and other essential items along the route. This will be the responsibility of the District Supply Officer and a separate nodal officer will be appointed to ensure daily monitoring.In order to strengthen medical and health services, he directed the establishment of sufficient medical units and makeshift hospitals as required along the route. He also directed to increase animal veterinary facilities. There is also emphasis on ensuring adequate supply of clean drinking water through corporate social responsibility and other resources.Prioritizing the convenience of pilgrims, the Chief Minister ordered the development of basic facilities like toilets, shelters and other facilities. He stressed the need for effective slot management and crowd control systems and real-time digital monitoring to minimize waiting time for drshn (darshan).He also directed to further strengthen the online registration system, add booths at crowded registration centers and streamline digital processes. From a security perspective, CCTV cameras should remain fully operational along the entire route, with AI-based surveillance systems implemented where necessary. Emphasis was also placed on strengthening surveillance at sensitive locations and continuous supervision from control rooms.Taking a firm stance on law and order, the Chief Minister directed adequate deployment of police and home guards on major routes, intersections and markets.He also directed that traffic congestion must be avoided through effective traffic management plans and alternative routes identified to ensure that local residents are not inconvenienced.Regarding disaster management, he directed to identify vulnerable areas beforehand and deploy necessary resources. Emphasizing on better coordination between SDRF, NDRF and local administration while keeping 24×7 control room and helpline active for prompt emergency response.The Chief Minister also directed that review meetings be held regularly during the Haj to monitor the progress and take immediate corrective measures based on past experience. He emphasized the need to repair potholes promptly and maintain road conditions.Referring to last year’s dispute related to community food services (bhandaras), he directed the government to establish coordination between locals and pilgrims to find a permanent solution. A strict crackdown on overpricing was also ordered and price lists were made mandatory in all stores.On transportation, he directed that all vehicles must have valid health certificates, green cards and travel cards. He also directed the supply department to ensure uninterrupted supply of LPG, kerosene, petrol and diesel on the Char Dham Yatra route.