An avalanche struck Gandhi Sarovar in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand on Sunday, prompting concerns amidst a bustling pilgrimage season at one of India’s holiest sites.
The avalanche occurred around 5 am, as confirmed by Rudraprayag SSP Dr. Vishakha Ashok Bhadane, though fortunately, there were no casualties or damage reported. The event was captured in a dramatic video released by news agencies, illustrating the powerful descent of snow down the slopes of Gandhi Sarovar. Avalanche warnings had been issued due to recent heavy snowfall, highlighting the precarious conditions in the region.Earlier this month, Kedarnath Dham had seen an unprecedented surge in pilgrim numbers, exceeding 7 lakh visitors by early June. This surge underscored the challenges faced by authorities in managing the Char Dham Yatra, a significant pilgrimage circuit encompassing Kedarnath along with Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Badrinath. Uttarakhand government initiatives, such as mandatory registration for pilgrims, aimed to enhance safety measures amidst increasing tourist footfall.
As the pilgrimage season progresses, the incident at Gandhi Sarovar serves as a reminder of the unpredictable Himalayan environment. Authorities continue to focus on managing the influx of pilgrims and ensuring their safety, with discussions underway to strengthen yatra management strategies for the future.
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