Dehradun – In a move aimed at ensuring better crowd management and improved facilities for pilgrims, the Uttarakhand government has initiated the process of preparing a comprehensive master plan for major religious sites in the state. The action follows clear instructions from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, R.K. Sudhanshu, has directed the Tourism Secretary to begin work on the master plan without delay. The decision comes in the wake of the unfortunate incident that occurred at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi temple on July 27. Chief Minister Dhami promptly visited the site, assessed the situation firsthand, and issued directives to enhance safety and infrastructure at all key pilgrimage destinations.
The proposed master plan will focus on high-footfall religious sites across Uttarakhand. For effective execution, cooperation will be sought from the Divisional Commissioners of Garhwal and Kumaon regions. Any encroachments on pilgrimage routes are to be removed on priority to ensure smooth access.
Key components of the master plan include:
Robust crowd control systems
Enhanced carrying capacity of pilgrimage sites
Designated entry and exit routes
Sufficient waiting areas for pilgrims
Emergency evacuation protocols
Availability of clean drinking water, toilets, and first aid facilities
Streamlined information and guidance services
Improved parking infrastructure
Deployment of adequate security personnel
Chief Minister Dhami emphasized that the safety and comfort of the millions of devotees visiting the state annually remains the government’s top priority. He stated that the master plan will ensure pilgrimage in Uttarakhand becomes safer, more organized, and more accessible for all.
