The annual Shri Hemkund Sahib Yatra in Uttarakhand has recorded a high turnout of pilgrims this year, with more than 70,000 devotees offering prayers at the holy shrine within the first 15 days of the pilgrimage that began on May 23.
District authorities, police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have strengthened security, health and transport arrangements along the pilgrimage route in view of the rising number of visitors.
Located at an altitude of approximately 15,000 feet above sea level, Hemkund Sahib is one of the major pilgrimage sites of the Sikh community and attracts devotees from across India and abroad every year. According to the administration, the number of pilgrims this year is higher than last year despite the snow-covered terrain and challenging trekking route.
To manage the increasing influx of pilgrims, the district administration has expanded infrastructure and facilities. According to officials, parking capacity has been developed at Govindghat for 150 buses, 747 cars and 545 two-wheelers. Additional parking arrangements have also been made at Pulna.
A shuttle service comprising 60 local vehicles is operating between Govindghat and Pulna for the convenience of pilgrims. Facilities related to drinking water, healthcare, electricity, sanitation and accommodation have also been strengthened along the route. Authorities said arrangements are being reviewed regularly to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.
Given the demanding trekking route to Hemkund Sahib, facilities including horses, mules, dandi and kandi services have been made available for elderly pilgrims, children and those with health concerns.
Police personnel and SDRF teams remain deployed across the route to maintain security and provide assistance. In addition to security duties, personnel are also offering medical and emergency support when required.
Recently, Harpreet Singh, a resident of Ludhiana in Punjab, fell ill near the glacier area while returning from Hemkund Sahib. After receiving information, SDRF and police teams reached the spot, provided first aid and arranged a palanquin to transport him safely to Ghangaria.
In another incident, Nishan Sood and Pratham Sood, also from Ludhiana, were unable to continue due to extreme fatigue. SDRF personnel assisted both pilgrims and helped them reach a safe location.
Considering the challenges of high altitude, low oxygen levels and long trekking distances, Chamoli Police has been distributing glucose packets and energy supplements to pilgrims along the route.
Police personnel and volunteers continue to assist pilgrims on the route passing through Govindghat, Pulna, Bhyundar and Ghangaria. Continuous langar services are also being operated at Govindghat, Ghangaria and Hemkund Sahib.
According to the administration, the number of pilgrims this year is considerably higher than last year. With the crowd continuing to increase, all concerned departments remain on alert. Authorities said all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the pilgrimage remains safe, organised and accessible for devotees.
