Dehradun, March 27, 2025 – As the much-anticipated Char Dham Yatra 2025 draws near, the Uttarakhand government has intensified its efforts to ensure a safe, smooth, and successful pilgrimage experience for thousands of devotees. The government is especially focused on safeguarding the health of pilgrims amidst challenging geographical and climatic conditions at the revered shrines of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
With the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri doors on April 30, followed by Kedarnath on May 2, and Badrinath on May 4, 2025, the state authorities have implemented several new measures to enhance health facilities for pilgrims. Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar emphasized that under the guidance of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, the government is taking large strides to address the health concerns of pilgrims and ensure a well-prepared healthcare system.
Health Advisory in 12 Languages
One of the key steps taken is the release of health advisories in 12 languages, ensuring that pilgrims from various regions receive critical health guidance in their native languages. Recognizing the unique health challenges posed by the difficult terrain and high-altitude environments, the state government has also issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to guide pilgrims on how to prepare physically and health-wise for the journey.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar stated that health officials across all states have been urged to promote awareness of the importance of pre-journey health checks, vigilance, and medical preparedness. This is especially critical for pilgrims traveling to the higher altitudes of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, where harsh climates, low oxygen levels, and difficult routes require extra caution.
Comprehensive Medical Assistance Along the Routes
The Uttarakhand government has set up several health checkpoints, emergency services, and helipads along the pilgrimage routes to assist pilgrims in case of any health emergencies. The government has also ensured the availability of medical personnel, oxygen cylinders, and medications to meet the healthcare needs of travelers.
Health Registration and Screening Protocols
Pilgrims are advised to undergo mandatory health checks before embarking on their journey. To ensure preparedness, they should also engage in physical conditioning such as walking, yoga, and cardiovascular exercises at least two months before the pilgrimage. Furthermore, pilgrims are encouraged to carry necessary medicines, maintain hydration, eat balanced meals, and keep light warm clothing and gloves.
The state government has partnered with health authorities in other states to encourage medical specialists, particularly cardiologists, orthopedists, and surgeons, to volunteer at medical facilities located along the Char Dham routes. Their voluntary contribution will allow the government to offer high-quality healthcare services to pilgrims, thus contributing to the success of the pilgrimage.
Promotion of Health Awareness
To ensure the health safety of pilgrims, the state government has also created informative materials outlining essential do’s and don’ts regarding health during the Yatra. These materials will be distributed at local levels across various districts to ensure that all travelers are well-informed of necessary health measures.
Health Checkpoints and Medical Relief Points
In addition to the advisories, several health checkpoints will be established along the pilgrimage route to monitor vital health parameters such as blood pressure, sugar levels, and oxygen saturation. These checkpoints will be linked with the registration points to ensure that all pilgrims undergo a health check before embarking on the journey. Additionally, the number of medical relief posts will be increased, with trained medical staff and health assistants stationed at strategic points.
Important Health Tips for Pilgrims
Health Secretary Dr. Rajesh Kumar has also offered specific health tips for pilgrims, urging them to plan their travel at least seven days in advance. During the journey, it is essential to take regular breaks, wear appropriate clothing, and carry essential health monitoring devices like pulse oximeters and thermometers. Pilgrims with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, asthma, or diabetes should carry their necessary medications and contact details of their doctors.
Telemedicine and Health ATMs for Quick Health Checkups
To further ease the process of health monitoring, the state will install Health ATMs along the Char Dham routes. These machines will allow pilgrims to quickly check their vital health parameters, including blood pressure, sugar levels, weight, and temperature. Additionally, telemedicine services will be available 24/7, enabling pilgrims to consult medical experts via remote consultations.
Special Focus on Kedarnath Yatra
Special attention will be given to the Kedarnath Yatra, which is known for presenting significant health challenges due to its high altitude. Health facilities along the Kedarnath route will be strengthened, with 10 medical relief posts and two Primary Health Centers (PHCs) set up in areas such as Guptkashi, Phata, Gaurikund, and Narayankoti. Health ATMs will also be installed at these locations for free health screenings.
The Uttarakhand government’s meticulous planning and commitment to the health security of pilgrims are expected to make Char Dham Yatra 2025 a safe and spiritually enriching experience. With state-of-the-art medical infrastructure, increased awareness, and the active involvement of medical professionals, the pilgrimage is set to be a seamless and successful event for thousands of devotees.
