Char Dham yatra: Priests, traders warn of shutdown in Gangotri region from April 25 over cap on visitor numbers

UTTARKASHI: Representatives of organisations linked to the Gangotri Dham pilgrimage, including Gangotri Temple Committee, hotel associations, and transport and traffic groups, have warned that if the cap on pilgrims for Char Dham yatra -- scheduled to begin on April 19 -- is not lifted and arrangements are not improved, all services, including temple rituals, hotels, eateries and transport operations, in Uttarkashi's Ganga Valley will be suspended from April 25, potentially disrupting the pilgrimage season.Stakeholders met district magistrate Prashant Arya and SP Kamlesh Upadhyay on Thursday and submitted a memorandum addressed to the chief minister, in which they reiterated their demand to remove limits on pilgrims, citing losses for those dependent on the pilgrimage. They asked officials to keep the registration portal open throughout the year and flagged "complex" online registration process. They also sought an end to checkpoint restrictions in Hina area and expansion of parking facilities in the district.Further, the group raised concerns over poor infrastructure, noting that the damaged Gangotri Highway remains unrepaired. At Songad, Bhagirathi river is level with the road, posing a risk during the rains, while damaged sections near Limchagad are yet to be rebuilt. Business owners claimed that official assurances of improved arrangements have not translated into action. Additional demands include increasing the daily limit of visitors to Gaumukh from 150 to 500 and enhancing quota for commercial LPG cylinders.DM Arya said, "The convenience of devotees will remain the top priority. Police officials have been directed to resolve issues concerning local vehicles at checkpoints. All departments must work in coordination to ensure a smooth and well-organised Char Dham yatra." He directed adequate supply of gas and petroleum, alternative arrangements such as wood and coal and resolution of local vehicle issues, and assured that all stakeholder concerns—including limits on pilgrim numbers—will be addressed on priority.