RUDRAPRAYAG – On the auspicious occasion of the opening of the portals of the world-renowned Kedarnath Dham, part of the Char Dham Yatra, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami distributed Prasad to thousands of devotees at the Mukhya Sevak Bhandara organized in the temple premises.
Accompanied by his wife, CM Dhami served food and Prasad to the pilgrims, interacting warmly with devotees from across the country. The event was marked by enthusiasm and devotion, with the crowd expressing happiness over the Chief Minister’s presence among them.
The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to honor sanitation workers and individuals who have made significant contributions to the reconstruction and cleanliness efforts in Kedarnath. Speaking with the devotees, CM Dhami took feedback on the arrangements made for the Yatra. Pilgrims expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts in ensuring smooth facilities and logistics.
Extending his greetings to the nation on the occasion, CM Dhami announced that the portals of Badrinath Dham are set to open on May 4. He assured that the state government is fully prepared to welcome devotees and support their spiritual journey with comprehensive facilities along the route.
Referring to the natural disaster that disrupted the Kedarnath Yatra for 35 days last year, he praised the collaborative efforts of the government, administration, and local residents that led to the successful resumption of the pilgrimage, which ultimately saw a record turnout.
Highlighting the importance of the Char Dham Yatra to Uttarakhand’s economy, CM Dhami called it the “lifeline of the state” and a source of livelihood for lakhs of people. He also emphasized the government’s commitment to making the pilgrimage a year-round affair, noting that winter Char Dham travel has already begun, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi promoting this initiative through his visit to Maa Ganga in Mukhwa, Uttarkashi.
The Chief Minister thanked the Prime Minister for his continuous support in the reconstruction of Kedarnath, which is being carried out at a cost of ₹2,000 crore. He also noted the recent approval for a ropeway construction from Gaurikund to Kedarnath by the Central Government, which is expected to ease travel for pilgrims.
Dignitaries present at the occasion included Gita Pushkar Dhami, MLA Asha Nautiyal, Dr. Madhu Bhatt, Colonel Ajay Kothiyal, Tirtha Purohit Srinivas Posti, Ankit Semwal, Umesh Posti, Himanshu Chamoli, among others.
