Rudraprayag: Continuous rainfall in the Kedar Valley has created fresh challenges for pilgrims travelling to Kedarnath, affecting both helicopter operations and the trekking route to the shrine.
Adverse weather conditions have led to repeated disruptions in helicopter services, causing inconvenience to thousands of pilgrims. According to officials, more than 5,000 helicopter tickets have been cancelled so far due to unfavorable flying conditions.
Many devotees who had planned to visit Kedarnath by helicopter have been forced to return without darshan after their tickets were cancelled, as they were unable to undertake the demanding trek to the temple.
The ongoing rain has also made the Kedarnath trekking route slippery and risky. Pilgrims are facing difficulties as falling stones and debris from hill slopes continue to pose a threat at several vulnerable stretches along the route.
The movement of horses and mules, which are widely used by pilgrims, has also been affected. Slippery conditions have resulted in animals losing balance at some locations, increasing safety concerns among visitors. Many pilgrims are reportedly hesitant to use horse and mule services due to the prevailing conditions.
The cold weather has further added to the challenges. Temperatures in Kedarnath have dropped below freezing, increasing the risk of hypothermia among pilgrims. Several visitors, especially elderly people and children, are experiencing health issues after being exposed to rain and low temperatures.
District Disaster Management Officer N.S. Rajwar said the administration remains on high alert and is closely monitoring weather conditions. Pilgrims are being stopped at safe locations in sensitive areas whenever necessary to prevent any untoward incidents.
Despite the difficult weather conditions, the flow of pilgrims to Kedarnath continues, with authorities advising devotees to check weather updates and follow safety guidelines before undertaking the pilgrimage.
