WiDesAI (kiWI Desi AI Bot) Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India – In a detailed inspection on Saturday, Uttarakhand Medical Health and Irrigation Secretary Dr R Rajesh Kumar reviewed ongoing preparations for the upcoming Chardham Yatra 2025 and the Kumbh Mela slated for 2027 in Haridwar. The inspection addressed various infrastructure needs, ensuring convenience and safety for the expected influx of pilgrims.
Focus on High-Quality Infrastructure
Dr Kumar stressed Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s directive to prioritise the comfort and safety of devotees attending both the Chardham Yatra and Kumbh Mela. Comprehensive reviews of proposed ghats, roads, bridges, and other construction works were conducted, with clear instructions issued to meet deadlines without compromising on quality.
“Strict action will be taken against any negligence at any level,” Kumar warned, underscoring the importance of accountability. Officials present during the inspection included the District Magistrate/Mela Adhikari, Sub-District Magistrate, Chief Engineer Irrigation, and Irrigation Engineer.
Challenges in Implementation
During the inspection, engineers highlighted that certain projects may require more than a year to complete, especially those reliant on canal closures for execution. Dr Kumar emphasised the need for prompt preparation and submission of proposals for vital schemes to facilitate timely administrative and financial approvals. The goal is to ensure that construction work commences without delay.
Plans for Ghats and Bridges
The Secretary held a high-level meeting in Damkothi to outline plans for organising the 2027 Kumbh Mela in an exceptional and divine manner, akin to past successful iterations.
Kumar instructed phased repair and beautification of 104 ghats (spanning a total length of 12.3 kilometres) to ensure pilgrims face no inconveniences while taking ritual baths or participating in religious ceremonies along the Ganges. He also called for scientifically supported proposals for the construction of approximately:
- 3.5 kilometres of new ghats from Mayapur Barrage to Jatwada Bridge.
- 2 kilometres of ghats in the Vairagi Camp area.
Further directions focused on adhering to stability, structural strength, and safety standards for slab construction.
Bridge Construction and Road Repairs
Dr Kumar issued immediate instructions to:
- Construct a new bridge over the dry river in Kharkhari.
- Replace the dilapidated 170-year-old bridge on Dhanouri-Sidkul Road.
- Complete the construction and repair of 26 kilometres of roads under the irrigation department promptly.
Looking Ahead
The preparations for the Chardham Yatra 2025 and Kumbh Mela 2027 reflect the state government’s commitment to accommodating large numbers of devotees while enhancing infrastructure and safety measures. With clear guidelines and accountability, the projects aim to uphold the spiritual significance of these events while providing a seamless experience for pilgrims.
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