The Aryavarth Express Dehradun, April 10: Authorities in Uttarakhand carried out mock drills at eight locations across the Gangotri and Yamunotri regions in Uttarkashi district as part of preparations for the upcoming Char Dham Yatra 2026.
In the Gangotri Dham area, mock drills were conducted at five sites—Bhatwari, Papad Gad, Kedar Tal, Dharali, and Telgaad. Meanwhile, three locations in the Yamunotri region—the Yamunotri pedestrian route, Paligad, and Kapad Gad—also witnessed similar exercises.
The mock drills involved multiple departments coordinating their resources to simulate rescue and relief operations in potential emergency scenarios. The initiative aimed to strengthen disaster preparedness and ensure a quick and effective response during real crises.
Uttarakhand Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Minister Madan Kaushik reviewed the state-level exercise at the State Emergency Operations Centre. The drills were organised jointly by the National Disaster Management Authority and the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority, covering seven districts.
Kaushik said the exercise focused on identifying possible challenges during the yatra and finalising necessary arrangements through practical planning involving district magistrates and emergency forces. He emphasised that such drills are crucial to ensuring smooth management during the pilgrimage.
He added that preparations include deployment of medical facilities, local response teams, security forces, and even helicopter support if required, to guarantee the safety of pilgrims.
Earlier, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that there will be no cap on the number of pilgrims for now, assuring that all departments are fully prepared to conduct a safe and well-managed Char Dham Yatra.
