Pilgrims and Tourists Encounter Delays and Frustration

The picturesque state of Uttarakhand is currently facing a major traffic crisis as the Char Dham pilgrimage season kicks off. With over 26 lakh pilgrims registered for the Char Dham Yatra in 2024, the roads are clogged with vehicles, leading to long delays and frustration among travelers.

The Gangotri-Yamunotri Highway is particularly affected, with ongoing road construction exacerbating the situation. Pilgrims are experiencing delays of several hours to reach the shrines, prompting protests and discontent among the devotees. Many pilgrims have been forced to abandon their journeys midway or miss out on important darshans at the temples.

The traffic chaos is not limited to the Char Dham Yatra alone. The influx of tourists from the plains seeking relief from the summer heat has also led to massive traffic jams in popular hill stations like Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Nainital. Limited parking facilities and vehicles parked on roads have further worsened the situation, causing travelers to miss their trains and other connections.

To address the growing traffic woes, the state police have set up over 60 holding areas for devotees near various markets, providing lodging, food, and basic hygiene facilities. Additionally, more than 800 personnel have been deployed to manage traffic issues in key areas across the state.

Despite these efforts, the traffic congestion in Uttarakhand shows no signs of abating, posing a significant challenge for both pilgrims and tourists alike. The authorities are working tirelessly to ease the situation and ensure a smoother travel experience for all visitors.