Uttarakhand Government Proposes Registration Fee to Combat Fake Char Dham Yatra Entries
In a significant move to address the issue of fraudulent registrations, the Uttarakhand government is preparing to implement a nominal fee for online registration of the Char Dham yatra. This initiative aims to streamline the pilgrimage process and reduce instances of pilgrims registering but not showing up during the busy season.
Formation of Expert Panel to Examine Proposal
A dedicated committee has been established under the leadership of Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey to thoroughly review the proposal. This panel is tasked with examining the feasibility and implications of the fee structure before submitting a comprehensive report to the government.
Addressing Management Challenges During Peak Season
Officials have highlighted that the decision follows numerous cases where pilgrims completed online registration but failed to arrive at the pilgrimage sites during peak periods. This discrepancy has created considerable confusion and logistical hurdles in managing the yatra effectively.
The directive was issued after a crucial meeting held on Monday, chaired by Pandey and Garhwal Inspector General Rajeev Swaroop. The meeting saw active participation from key stakeholders, including representatives from hotel associations, transport operators, and porter groups.
Proposed Fee Range and Stakeholder Concerns
The proposed registration fee is expected to be set between Rs 10 and Rs 20. While officials believe this nominal amount will deter fake entries without burdening genuine pilgrims, hoteliers have expressed concerns about potential impacts on pilgrim footfall.
Hotel association members urged the government to ensure that the new measure does not adversely affect tourism, noting that their business is heavily reliant on the yatra season, which lasts only a few months each year.
Scale of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand welcomes approximately 50 lakh pilgrims annually during the Char Dham yatra. Recent statistics reveal the immense popularity of these sacred sites:
- Kedarnath: Nearly 17.7 lakh devotees visited last year
- Yamunotri Dham: Over 6.44 lakh pilgrims offered prayers
The introduction of a registration fee represents a strategic effort to balance religious tourism with sustainable management practices, ensuring a smoother experience for all pilgrims while supporting local businesses that depend on this annual influx.
