Char Dham Yatra Reels from Climate Shocks: 55 ‘Zero-Pilgrim Days’ Recorded

The Char Dham Yatra, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages covering Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri in Uttarakhand, is facing increasing disruption due to climate shocks and extreme weather events. In 2025, the region has already recorded 55 ‘zero-pilgrim days’, days when no devotees could travel due to heavy rainfall, landslides, flash floods, and road blockages.

Climate Impact on Char Dham Yatra

• Erratic rainfall & landslides: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has highlighted rising incidents of cloudbursts and untimely rainfall in Uttarakhand.
• Glacial melting: The IPCC Report (2023) warns that Himalayan glaciers are retreating rapidly, increasing flood risk.
• Pilgrim safety concerns: Thousands of tourists face sudden evacuations, halting religious tourism and impacting livelihoods.

Economic and Social Implications

• Tourism revenue loss: Uttarakhand’s economy, heavily dependent on religious tourism, faces a major setback.
• Local livelihoods: Transport operators, hotels, and small vendors suffer income losses.
• Faith and accessibility: Repeated closures impact the spiritual and cultural fabric of the region.

Government Measures

• Char Dham Project (All-weather road): Infrastructure work is ongoing to ensure year-round connectivity, though it faces environmental concerns.
• Early warning systems: Installation of weather monitoring stations and landslide sensors.
• Disaster preparedness: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is working with state authorities for better evacuation and relief mechanisms.

Way Forward

• Integrating climate-resilient infrastructure with ecological safeguards.
• Promoting sustainable pilgrimage tourism with regulated pilgrim flow.
• Strengthening eco-tourism and local adaptation measures.

UPSC Practice Questions

Prelims MCQ:
Which of the following shrines are part of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand?

1. Kedarnath
2. Badrinath
3. Yamunotri
4. Vaishno Devi

• (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
• (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
• (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
• (d) All of the above

(Answer: a)

Mains Question:
Discuss the impact of climate change on pilgrimage tourism in the Himalayan region. Suggest measures for ensuring climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainable pilgrimage management. (250 words)

References:
Down To Earth, Sept 1, 2025