Despite the recent landslide in Malpa area of Pithoragarh district, the authorities have continued the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from here. On Wednesday, the 17th batch of pilgrims arrived at Kathgodam for undertaking the pilgrimage. This batch which comprises 40 pilgrims including 10 women was accorded a welcome at Kathgodam by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN).
Though aware of the disaster which took place recently on the Kailash Mansarovar route at Malpa, the pilgrims are undaunted and enthusiastic to undertake the journey. The pilgrims stressed that they have faith in lord Shiva and are not worried about the situation on the pilgrimage route.
The KMVN manager Ramesh Chandra Pandey said that work had been started on clearing the blocked route taken for the pilgrimage. Efforts are underway to open the route damaged by heavy rain and landslide at Malpa, Ghatiyapokhar, lamari and Chandhaula. Additionally, two helicopters have also been kept on standby near Dharchula in case of emergency related to the pilgrims.