Char Dham Yatra Resumes in Uttarakhand After Two-Day Weather Suspension

The Char Dham Yatra resumed on Monday morning after a two-day suspension forced by adverse weather across Uttarakhand. The halt was lifted by Garhwal Commissioner Anand Swaroop, who acted after weather conditions improved and in line with directions from the Char Dham Yatra Control Organisation in Rishikesh. Pilgrims have now been permitted to proceed towards the four shrines.

The pilgrimage had been suspended from September 26 to 27 following an adverse weather forecast, as several parts of the state experienced light to heavy rainfall. Hemkund Sahib in Chamoli recorded snowfall on Saturday. With the Meteorological Department issuing a red alert, the Uttarkashi district administration had also temporarily halted travel to Gangotri and Yamunotri for two days. During the suspension, pilgrims were stopped at designated transit points — Heena on the Gangotri route and Dobata on the Yamunotri route.

Speaking to reporters, Swaroop said the suspension order was withdrawn because the weather had improved and no warnings were currently in force from the Meteorological Department. District administrations have been instructed to implement the guidelines in their respective areas and to help facilitate the Yatra.

Swaroop added that District Magistrates are authorised to take necessary decisions on conducting the Yatra based on local conditions. "In the event of road blockages, heavy rainfall, or adverse weather conditions, District Magistrates may temporarily suspend the Yatra at their own level," he said.

Despite the resumption, the administration has emphasised that pilgrim safety remains a high priority, particularly as rainy weather persists in the region. Departments concerned and Yatra nodal officers have been told to stay vigilant. Officials said weather conditions and travel routes are being continuously monitored.

Pilgrims have been advised to check weather updates and follow the guidelines issued by the local administration while undertaking their journey.