March 10, 2025 | Dehradun:
In a strong push towards environmental sustainability and cleanliness, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the launch of the ‘Green Char Dham Yatra’ campaign ahead of the upcoming pilgrimage season. The initiative aims to promote eco-conscious practices among pilgrims visiting the sacred shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
During a high-level review meeting held at the Secretariat on Monday, the Chief Minister directed officials to prioritize environmental protection and hygiene during the Char Dham Yatra, which is set to begin from April 30. He emphasized that this year’s pilgrimage should not only be a spiritual journey but also a call to preserve nature.
One of the highlights of the campaign will be encouraging devotees to plant saplings in memory of their ancestors, turning devotion into a living legacy for future generations. The initiative seeks to blend spiritual duty with environmental responsibility.
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of a complete ban on single-use plastic across all four pilgrimage sites. Public awareness campaigns will be launched to discourage the use of plastic and to promote eco-friendly alternatives.
In his address, CM Dhami instructed officials to conduct on-ground inspections of all yatra routes and ensure that all facilities, especially toilets and sanitation infrastructure, are in place well ahead of time. He called for the construction of sufficient ‘Pink Toilets’, dedicated for women, along the journey routes.
He further urged public representatives and government officials to actively participate in cleanliness drives, setting an example for visitors and reinforcing the message of a clean and green pilgrimage.
With millions expected to undertake the Char Dham Yatra this year, the Green Char Dham Yatra campaign represents a progressive step toward integrating devotion with environmental responsibility, making the journey not only sacred but also sustainable.
