Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan reviewed Kedarnath reconstruction and Badrinath master plan works, directing improved darshan management, pilgrim facilities and preparations for Char Dham Yatra 2026.
Dehradun: Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan on Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat regarding the Kedarnath Reconstruction Project and the Badrinath Master Plan. The meeting was attended by senior officials of concerned departments and district magistrates. Detailed discussions were held on ensuring the smooth, safe and systematic conduct of the Char Dham Yatra.
The Chief Secretary stated that it is essential to identify and resolve practical issues related to pilgrimage routes, darshan arrangements and civic facilities at Kedarnath and Badrinath in a time-bound manner. He emphasized that pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra should carry a pleasant and satisfying experience from the beginning of their journey until their safe return, and all preparations must be made accordingly.
Focus on Transparent Darshan Management
The Chief Secretary directed that while issuing darshan tokens, digital display boards must clearly show the current darshan number being allowed inside the temple. Pilgrims should also be informed of the estimated waiting time for darshan at the time of token issuance. He instructed that this system be made mandatory during the upcoming Char Dham Yatra.
Special Facilities for Elderly and Divyang Pilgrims
To ensure inclusive pilgrimage facilities, the Chief Secretary directed that adequate arrangements be made for wheelchairs, golf carts and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for elderly pilgrims and those with mobility challenges, so that no devotee faces inconvenience.
Strengthening Information Dissemination
To provide pilgrims with timely and appropriate information during the journey, the Chief Secretary instructed the installation of clear signage and QR code–based information boards at key locations. These will offer details related to darshan procedures, routes, medical facilities, parking, toilets and other essential services.
Certified Guide System to Be Developed
The Chief Secretary emphasized the need to introduce a certified guide system at all major tourist and pilgrimage destinations across the state. He directed the Tourism Department to prepare a detailed action plan for guide training programs at the earliest.
Preparations in View of Kedarnath Ropeway Project
The Chief Secretary noted that once the Kedarnath ropeway becomes operational, there is likely to be a significant increase in pilgrim footfall at the Kedarnath temple complex, Gaurikund and Sonprayag. Keeping this in view, he directed officials to initiate advance preparations, including exploring possibilities for expansion of the Kedarnath temple area and identifying additional land for parking and other facilities at Gaurikund and Sonprayag.
Officials Present
The meeting was attended by Secretary Dr. V. Shanmugam, Secretary Dheeraj Singh Garbyal, District Magistrate Rudraprayag Prateek Jain, and District Magistrate Chamoli Gaurav Kumar through video conferencing, along with other senior officials.
