Following the recent accident at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi temple, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials to prepare a comprehensive master plan for all major religious sites in the state. Acting on his orders, Chief Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu has instructed the Tourism Secretary to begin immediate work on crowd management, entry-exit systems, and essential public facilities at these sites.
On July 27, soon after the incident at Mansa Devi temple, CM Dhami personally visited the site and reviewed the situation. He then ordered officials to ensure that detailed planning be done for the safety and convenience of pilgrims at major pilgrimage destinations across Uttarakhand.
On Tuesday, R.K. Sudhanshu formally directed the Tourism Secretary to act swiftly. The plan will prioritize high-traffic pilgrimage destinations and will involve both Garhwal and Kumaon divisional commissioners in its planning and execution.
The plan will also focus on the removal of unauthorized encroachments along pilgrimage routes as a top priority.
Key Features of the Master Plan:
- Crowd control systems
- Enhancement of carrying capacity
- Separate entry and exit routes
- Additional waiting areas
- Emergency evacuation systems
- Clean drinking water, toilets, and first-aid facilities
- Structured information and guidance system
- Improved parking arrangements
“Millions of pilgrims visit Uttarakhand every year. To ensure their safety and convenience, we will develop a structured master plan for all major religious sites, along with public amenities,” said Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
