Kedarnath Pilgrimage Halted Due to Route Damage, Thousands Stranded

The Kedarnath pilgrimage by road has been suspended after a section of the trek route near Jungle Chatti caved in, leaving thousands of returning pilgrims stranded. Although an alternative route was established, pilgrims are being evacuated with the help of police, SDRF, and NDRF personnel. Helicopter services remain operational.

A road pilgrimage to Kedarnath was halted Saturday when a section of the trek route near Jungle Chatti caved in, stranding thousands of pilgrims. Helicopter services continue to function, officials reported.

Rudraprayag's Superintendent of Police Akshay Prahlad Konde stated that a 10-15 meter segment of the trek route collapsed suddenly, making it impossible to proceed. Alternative, albeit longer, routes were established to evacuate the stranded pilgrims efficiently. Around 5,000 pilgrims have been evacuated so far, with ongoing efforts to rescue the remaining, involving police, SDRF, and NDRF personnel.

Pilgrims bound for Kedarnath were instructed to stay in locations like Phata, Guptkashi, Rudraprayag, and Srinagar until the trek route is restored. No pilgrims are allowed to advance beyond Sonprayag and Gaurikund for safety reasons. Police have also advised pilgrims against rushing to these areas, citing limited accommodation facilities.