Uttarakhand CM Announces 25% Discount on Helicopter Service to Shri Kedarnath Dham

Uttarakhand government offers a 25% discount on helicopter services for pilgrims visiting Shri Kedarnath Dham. CM Dhami reviews reconstruction efforts in rain-hit Rudraprayag, directs prompt restoration of services. Over 12,000 rescued as operations near completion.

The Uttarakhand government has announced a 25% discount on helicopter tickets for pilgrims traveling to Shri Kedarnath Dham. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made the announcement on Tuesday after reviewing relief, rescue operations, and reconstruction in the rain-affected Rudraprayag district. He instructed authorities to resume the Kedarnath Dham Yatra on foot soon.

Chief Minister Dhami further stated that the discounted helicopter service for the Dham will commence on Wednesday, with the state government subsidizing the fare. He appealed to local residents for suggestions and cooperation in facilitating the journey. Earlier, Dhami conducted an aerial survey of the affected areas, reviewing damage and departmental preparations for the pilgrimage route.

Dhami directed officials to expedite the normalization of life, focusing on the restoration of damaged routes, drinking water, and power lines. He listened to local concerns during a visit to Rampur Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) and assured swift solutions to issues stemming from heavy rains. He also expressed gratitude towards locals and the central government for their assistance in rescue operations.

Speaking to the media, Dhami revealed that landslides caused by heavy rains disrupted roads and footpaths in 29 locations, damaging government properties and cutting off utilities. He commended the efforts of various agencies and organizations, including SDRF, DDRF, NDRF, and local bodies, in rescuing approximately 12,000 people. The rescue operations are nearing completion.