Dehradun/Rishikesh – As preparations for the Char Dham Yatra 2025 gain momentum, District Magistrate (DM) Savin Bansal conducted a detailed inspection of the Transit Camp in Rishikesh on Monday to review the arrangements for the incoming pilgrims. Accompanied by senior officials from various departments, the DM emphasized that all necessary facilities must be in place to ensure a smooth and safe journey for the devotees.
In line with the Chief Minister’s strict directives, the DM stressed that no delay should occur in transporting pilgrims to their respective destinations. “Our priority is to make the journey seamless and hassle-free. Every officer must remain alert and accountable,” he said during the visit.
To streamline pilgrim registration, 30 dedicated counters have been set up and are operating round-the-clock. As of 5 PM Monday, around 1,700 pilgrims had already completed their registration. Additionally, 35 mobile teams have been deployed to register pilgrims at Dharamshalas, hotels, and buses. Of these, 10 teams will remain active during night hours to manage late arrivals.
The DM issued several key directives to improve basic facilities, including arrangements for drinking water, medical aid, sanitation, and security. He instructed that cold water dispensers be strategically placed at the Transit Camp and ISBT, with adequate manpower for distribution—funded by the district administration. Furthermore, 24 counters at the transit camp and 12 at ISBT will provide tea, food, and water to pilgrims.
To bolster healthcare services, medical counters will be staffed by doctors and nursing personnel, with additional services outsourced to ensure timely care. The DM confirmed that payments have already been released to the health department.
Food quality was another focus point. The DM ordered that only fresh food, cooked within four hours, should be served to the pilgrims. He also directed that a list of available Dharamshalas be displayed clearly in every hangar or tent and broadcast on LED screens.
In addition to reviewing passenger assistance counters like the Yatri Mitra Kendra and Police Sahayata Kendra, the DM assessed parking facilities and instructed officials to enhance traffic and crowd management strategies.
The inspection was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh, Chief Development Officer Abhinav Shah, Rishikesh Municipal Commissioner Shailendra Singh Negi, SP Sadar Jaya Baluni, Deputy DM Yogesh Mehar, Dr. Shikha Jangpangi (Health Dept), Joint Director Tourism Yogendra Singh Gangwar, District Development Officer Sunil Kumar, and District Supply Officer K.K. Agarwal, among others.
