In response to the recent incident at the Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken swift action to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims across the state. Following his visit to the accident site on July 27, the Chief Minister directed the creation of a comprehensive master plan to enhance infrastructure and security at all major pilgrimage destinations.
Secretary R K Sudhanshu Issues Implementation Orders
Acting on the Chief Minister’s instructions, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Mr. R.K. Sudhanshu (1997-batch IAS officer) issued formal orders to the Tourism Secretary on Tuesday. The directive calls for immediate initiation of planning and action, focusing on sites that witness high footfall of pilgrims.
The divisional commissioners of both Garhwal and Kumaon regions have been directed to assist in the preparation and execution of the master plan. Additionally, strict instructions have been given to identify and remove any illegal encroachments along the pilgrimage routes without delay.
Key Components of the Master Plan
The proposed master plan will encompass:
- Effective crowd control systems
- Assessment and enhancement of carrying capacity
- Separate entry and exit routes for smoother pilgrim flow
- Dedicated waiting areas
- Emergency evacuation infrastructure
- Clean drinking water and sanitation facilities
- First aid and basic medical services
- Clear signage and information kiosks
- Well-planned parking zones
- Deployment of adequate security personnel
Chief Minister’s Commitment
Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the importance of modernizing pilgrimage experiences in the state. He said:
“Crores of pilgrims visit Uttarakhand every year. Therefore, a master plan of all the pilgrimage sites will be made for the safety and convenience of the pilgrims. By developing public facilities around the pilgrimage sites, the journey will be made more organized.”
The initiative aims to not only enhance pilgrim safety but also streamline religious tourism, ensuring that Uttarakhand remains a well-managed and spiritually enriching destination for all.
