Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand has recorded its highest-ever annual pilgrim footfall this year, with around 3.40 lakh devotees having visited the Sikh shrine so far, Garhwal Commissioner Anand Swarup said on Thursday.

The number of pilgrims visiting Hemkund Sahib has risen steadily over the past few years. The current figure has already surpassed last year’s record of 2.74 lakh visitors, despite 17 days still remaining in the pilgrimage season.

The commissioner said the administration expects the number to increase further before the yatra concludes. Based on current trends, another 50,000 to 60,000 devotees could visit the shrine during the remaining period, potentially taking the overall footfall well above the existing record.

Pilgrimage Arrangements Strengthened

Swarup said the administration has been working continuously to improve facilities for pilgrims and ensure that the yatra proceeds smoothly. Measures have been strengthened to address the safety, convenience and movement of the growing number of devotees.

The increase in visitors to Hemkund Sahib comes alongside strong turnout at other major pilgrimage destinations in Uttarakhand. According to the Chief Minister’s Office, Badrinath Dham has also registered a record number of visitors this year, with its cumulative footfall crossing 17 lakh for the first time.

The rising number of pilgrims has increased the focus on infrastructure and crowd management across the state’s religious tourism destinations. Authorities are working to ensure that expanding visitor numbers are matched by adequate arrangements for safety, transport and basic facilities.

Haridwar Kumbh Preparations Gather Pace

At the same time, preparations for the upcoming Haridwar Kumbh Mela are progressing rapidly, with authorities focusing on infrastructure development, security arrangements, traffic regulation and crowd management.

Swarup said permanent construction and development projects linked to the event are advancing, with several works already completed. Temporary infrastructure projects are now being initiated, with tenders for such works having been finalised.

The administration has approximately three months to complete the remaining Kumbh-related projects. Swarup said departments have been directed to speed up implementation while maintaining deadlines and ensuring that construction meets the required quality standards.

Focus On Ghats, Security And Crowd Control

The Garhwal commissioner said he inspected preparations in Haridwar last Sunday and is scheduled to conduct another review shortly. Regular inspections are intended to monitor progress and ensure that departments remain on schedule ahead of the major religious gathering.

Authorities are also strengthening arrangements at important ghats in both Rishikesh and Haridwar. Security, traffic management and crowd-control measures are being given particular attention to handle the expected movement of large numbers of devotees.

The developments reflect the wider increase in religious tourism across Uttarakhand this year. With major shrines recording strong pilgrim numbers, the administration is simultaneously working to improve arrangements for ongoing yatras and complete preparations for the forthcoming Kumbh Mela.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share