While the pilgrimage to Badrinath and Kedarnath shrines has been stalled due to rough weather, the pilgrimage to the Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines is still continuing albeit at a snail’s pace due to the deteriorated condition of the highway at various points.
So far, a little more than 7,000 pilgrims have visited Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines since the start of the Char Dham Yatra two weeks ago whereas last year more than 12,000 people had visited these two shrines in the first week of the Yatra season.
Those employed in trades related to pilgrimage and tourism are hoping that the number of pilgrims will increase once the weather and condition of the highway improves.
Inspite of the government claiming to have made arrangements for a convenient and safe pilgrimage, the number of people undertaking the Char Dham Yatra is considerably less compared to the previous year.
The portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines in Uttarkashi district were reopened to the public on May 2. Since then 4165 people have visited Gangotri and 3286 have visited Yamunotri. Due to the memories of last year’s disaster and the damaged condition of the highway, the pilgrims are still hesitant to travel to these shrines.
In past years, an average of 10,000 pilgrims used to reach these shrines daily but at present hardly a 1,000 pilgrims are reaching these two shrines daily. Many hotels and Dharmshalas at Uttarkashi, Netala, Bhatwadi, Gangnani, Harsil, Tharali and Gangotri are yet to open.
Similar conditions are being seen at the main stoppages on the route to Yamunotri. The hotels and dharmshalas opened at these places are still awaiting pilgrims. The consistent rain coupled with snowfall in the higher reaches which is being experienced for some days now, has not only caused a drop in the level of mercury but has also damaged stretches of the highways to Gangotri and Yamunotri at various places. The opinion of the pilgrims reaching these shrines is that basic facilities are provided and the quality of the road is proper then the number of pilgrims arriving here would rise.