The countdown to the resumption of pilgrimage to Badrinath has begun with a little more than a week left before the portals of this important shrine are reopened to the public. However, the condition of the Rishikesh-Badrinath national highway, especially in Joshimath is far from desirable with large potholes dotting the highway — including the stretch that passes through the main bazaar in town. The condition of the highway in various mountainous places can be gauged from its condition inside the town.
Joshimath is the main stop on the route to Badrinath but the condition of the highway in this town is not as desired at various places. Vehicle users are facing major inconvenience while negotiating on a road dotted with deep potholes. Following rain, these potholes become ditches of muddy water and whenever a vehicle moves across a ditch, the dirty water is splashed onto shops and road users. However, the authorities seem to have turned a blind eye to this problem, the resulting public inconvenience and increased risk of road accidents. The locals complaint that it seems as if the officials concerned have not yet noticed these potholes even though various politicians are conducting rallies and road shows frequently. Administrative officials from the Tehsil upto State level are also using such roads while inspecting the Yatra preparations and but condition of the road appears to be ignored. While the Border Roads Organisation is working on the stretch of the highway between Govindghat and Pandukeshwar, the department concerned doesn’t seem to have the time to work on the city stretch of the highway.