Uttarakhand, April 2025 — As the Chardham Yatra begins this season, the Uttarakhand government has launched a comprehensive high-tech security operation to ensure the safety of pilgrims journeying to the holy sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
For the first time, the state has deployed over 6,000 security personnel along the pilgrimage routes and shrine areas. This includes the presence of specialized units such as the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and bomb disposal teams. Their inclusion reflects a heightened focus on both crowd safety and the prevention of any potential threats.
In a major technological push, 624 CCTV cameras have been installed across key points to provide real-time monitoring. Drones are also being used extensively to oversee large gatherings, manage traffic, and quickly identify any emergency situations from the air.
“Pilgrim safety is our top priority. We’ve combined strong ground presence with advanced surveillance tools to make this year’s yatra more secure and efficient,” a senior police officer stated.
Alongside the police deployment, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been placed on alert with 58 teams stationed along vulnerable stretches of the route. These teams are trained to respond to natural disasters, which are a known risk in Uttarakhand’s mountainous terrain.
Medical teams, emergency response units, and help centers have also been set up to assist pilgrims facing health issues, fatigue, or any other difficulties during the journey.
The Chardham Yatra, one of the most significant spiritual pilgrimages in India, draws lakhs of devotees every year. With record-breaking turnout expected in 2025, officials are urging all pilgrims to register in advance, follow traffic rules, and remain alert while traveling.
This year’s security arrangement marks a significant step toward ensuring that the spiritual journey remains not only peaceful but also safe and well-managed from start to finish.
