Char Dham Yatra 2026 preparations intensify with NDMA-USDMA tabletop exercise. Mega mock drill on April 10, Dehradun divided into 9 zones and 23 sectors to ensure zero loss of life.
Dehradun | April 08, 2026
Preparations for the Char Dham Yatra 2026 have been intensified with a strong focus on disaster management to ensure a safe, smooth, and well-organized pilgrimage. In this regard, a Table Top Exercise was conducted on Wednesday in Dehradun under the aegis of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA).
The meeting reviewed strategies to handle potential disasters along the pilgrimage routes, inter-departmental coordination, and preparedness for the large-scale mock drill scheduled on April 10. Officials emphasized that accurate assessment of risks and resources is crucial for the successful conduct of the yatra.
Experts stressed the importance of identifying vulnerable areas and conducting GIS mapping of available resources to ensure quick and effective response during emergencies.
Detailed discussions were also held on the Incident Response System (IRS), outlining the roles of Incident Commanders, Sector Magistrates, nodal officers, and various operational units.
All sector commanders were directed to:
- Prepare a comprehensive list of stakeholders
- Develop contingency plans based on available resources
- Keep a complete Incident Action Plan ready for emergency situations
Additionally, prior approvals and coordination for drone surveys and helicopter services were instructed.
To ensure smooth road connectivity:
- Agencies like NHAI, PWD, and BRO have been directed to deploy adequate machinery at vulnerable points
- Forces including the Army, ITBP, SSB, IAF, NDRF, SDRF, Police, Home Guards, and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been placed on alert
Officials noted that since all four shrines are located in high हिमालयी regions, risks increase significantly during the monsoon due to:
- Heavy rainfall
- Cloudbursts
- Landslides
- Adverse weather conditions
Effective coordination among agencies at district, state, and national levels is therefore essential.
The administration has set a clear goal of “Zero Loss of Life.” Key focus areas include:
- Rapid rescue and relief operations
- Emergency medical services
- Food, communication, and essential supplies
- Preventing panic among pilgrims
A comprehensive mock drill will be conducted on April 10 to assess preparedness for the Char Dham Yatra, with active participation from all concerned departments.
Additional District Magistrate (F/R) K.K. Mishra informed that, under the direction of District Magistrate Savin Bansal:
- Dehradun district has been divided into 9 zones and 23 sectors
- Zonal and sector officers have already been deployed
Key arrangements have been strengthened, including:
- Online and offline registration systems
- Transport and parking management
- Drinking water and sanitation
- Temporary accommodation and hotel arrangements
- Price regulation of essential commodities
- Uninterrupted power supply
- Emergency healthcare services
- Security and crowd management
- Grievance redressal and feedback systems
Senior officials from administration, police, NDRF, SDRF, Home Guards, and various departments participated in the Table Top Exercise and shared updates on their preparedness.
