The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has reached significant milestones, with total registrations surpassing the 50-lakh mark and nearly 45 lakh pilgrims attending the revered shrines. This surge in numbers is attributed to the ongoing second phase of the pilgrimage, which has registered unprecedented footfall.
Hemant Dwivedi, Chairman of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), reported that the Badrinath and Kedarnath sites have attracted immense interest, resulting in substantial revenue for the temple organisation. He noted that revenues from these two shrines alone have exceeded Rs 74.5 crore, with Kedarnath Dham contributing around Rs 37 crore to that total.
According to Dwivedi, about 19,34,000 pilgrims registered specifically for Kedarnath Dham, while approximately 17,79,451 have shown interest in Badrinath Dham. Cumulatively, around 30.62 lakh pilgrims are recorded as registered for both of these major Dhams, contributing to the overall attendance of around 44 to 45 lakh at the four Char Dhams.
Condition of Pilgrimage Routes
Despite seasonal rainfall, the pilgrimage arrangements are reportedly functioning well, ensuring the safe passage of devotees. Dwivedi confirmed that arrangements are holding up against the rains, facilitating steady movement at the shrines.
<h4“With the commencement of the second phase of the Yatra, enthusiasm among devotees remains high, particularly for visiting Baba Kedar and offering prayers at Kedarnath Dham,” stated Dwivedi. He further highlighted that a collective total of 30,62,228 individuals have visited Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham, with 16,12,112 pilgrims reported at Kedarnath and 14,50,116 at Badrinath.”