Chardham yatra unaffected by earthquake

Mr. Harish Rawat, the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, has announced that Chardham yatra remains open for the pilgrims. It is unaffected by the disastrous earthquake on April 26, 2015 and its several aftershocks thereafter.

On the occasion of a ceremony at Badrinath after which the temple portals opened for the general mass, he confirmed the reporters that the high-intensity earthquake did not affect the pilgrimage in any way. It is still functioning smoothly.

Mr. Rawat said that the Chardham yatra is a heritage and people place high faith on this pilgrimage. The Uttarakhand government is “contemplating to make it better and hassle-free for the devotees.”

He thanked devotees for turning up in unexpected numbers even after the disastrous earthquake. This has helped to boost their morale. He said that the pilgrimage route from Pandukeshwar to Badrinath is tough and challenging but the government is trying its level best to make proper arrangements in this regard. In fact, he appointed highest officials for the task. He assured people that the Chardham yatra is completely safe and secure.

He took part in the sacred ceremony in the Badrinath temple in the early morning along with thousands of devotees after which the doors of Badrinath shrine were thrown open for all. The Chief Minister met several pilgrims from different corners of the country and gathered feedback’s.

He has ordered all the district officials to take note of the loss and damages caused by the earthquake and take immediate action. He expressed grief for the people of Nepal and India struck by the calamity and prayed for their early recovery.