Dainik Nation News Portal
DAINIK NATION BUREAU/KEDARNATH
On the occasion of the ceremonial opening of the portals of Shri Kedarnath Dham, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the Mukhya Sevak Bhandara and personally distributed prasad and served food to thousands of devotees. Accompanied by his wife, the Chief Minister extended a warm welcome to pilgrims and interacted with them, receiving positive feedback on the arrangements made by the state government.
The Mukhya Sevak Bhandara, organized within the temple premises, saw massive participation from devotees. Many expressed joy and gratitude at being served directly by the Chief Minister. During the event, CM Dhami also honored “environmental friends” contributing to the cleanliness of the sacred site and recognized individuals who played key roles in the temple town’s reconstruction.
Extending his wishes to the entire nation on the auspicious reopening of Kedarnath Dham, the Chief Minister reiterated the state’s preparedness for the Char Dham Yatra. He noted that the portals of Shri Badrinath Dham would open on May 4 and that all necessary facilities — including safety, transport, medical aid, and lodging — are in place.
Referring to the 2023 natural disaster that disrupted the pilgrimage for over a month, CM Dhami commended the joint efforts of the administration and local residents in restoring the yatra. “A record number of devotees arrived last year despite the setback, and we expect even greater participation this year,” he said.
Highlighting the Char Dham Yatra’s role as an economic lifeline for Uttarakhand, the Chief Minister emphasized efforts to promote year-round pilgrimage, including winter yatras. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership and ongoing support, including approving the ₹2,000 crore Kedarnath reconstruction project and the upcoming Gaurikund–Kedarnath ropeway.
