Pilgrimage to Kedarnath Temporarily Halted Due to Trek Route Cave-In

The pilgrimage to the revered Kedarnath temple has been put on hold as part of the trek route caved in near Jungle Chatti on Saturday, leaving thousands of pilgrims stranded while attempting to return from the Himalayan shrine.

According to Rudraprayag Superintendent of Police Akshay Prahlad Konde, "A 10-15 metre stretch of the trek route caved in suddenly, making movement along the route impossible." Efforts are currently underway to evacuate the stranded pilgrims, with around 5,000 individuals having been rescued so far. The operation is supported by personnel from the police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

Officials have confirmed that the helicopter service to Kedarnath remains operational, providing an alternative for those wishing to continue their pilgrimage. However, the priority remains on evacuating those who were returning from the temple. Konde added, “Pilgrims bound for the temple were asked to stay in places like Phata, Guptkashi, Rudraprayag, and Srinagar till restoration of the trek route which might take some time.”

For safety reasons, those intending to depart for Kedarnath from Gaurikund and Sonprayag have been advised against continuing their journey. "No pilgrim has been allowed to go beyond Sonprayag and Gaurikund after damage to the trek route near Jungle Chatti," Konde stated.

In light of the ongoing situation, the police have urged pilgrims traveling on foot to “stay wherever they are and not rush to reach Sonprayag or Gaurikund where there are limited staying facilities.”

As restoration efforts continue, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and comfort of all pilgrims involved.