Kailash Yatra 2025 : DC issues guidelines to ensure safe conduct of yatra

Doda, Aug 19: Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh today rolled out advisories for the annual Kailash Yatra 2025, emphasising that safety and security of devotees have been flagged as the topmost priority.  Speaking to the media persons here, he gave details about the arrangements made for the annual Yatra scheduled to be held from August 20 to August 22. “In view of the unfortunate cloudburst incidents at Padder and Kathua and the prevailing inclement weather conditions, precautionary restrictions have been imposed to ensure a safe pilgrimage,” the DC informed.The DC informed that women and children will not be permitted to participate this year owing to safety concerns. He further clarified that pilgrims shall not be allowed to travel through the Chattergala route, as the stretch is vulnerable due to wild streams and unsafe terrain. “Instead, the Yatra will be conducted strictly through the traditional routes—Sungli, Nalthi, and Drafda (Bhalla)—where the District Administration has deployed officials at all important locations to assist and guide the yatris,” he said and added that the holy mace (Charri Mubarak) will move along with the designated pilgrims as part of a symbolic Yatra, ensuring smooth conduct of essential rituals and religious ceremonies.The Deputy Commissioner informed that every pilgrim has to carry a valid identity card issued by the District Administration for proper verification. “A comprehensive deployment plan has been prepared for stationing of staff at multiple points along the Yatra route to ensure smooth movement, provision of medical facilities, prompt disaster response, drinking water, shelter, communication, and security,” he informed further. He added that three rounds of meetings have already been conducted with all stakeholders to finalize the arrangements, and it was unanimously decided to allow only the Charri Mubarak with the identified group of yatris for the symbolic conduct of the Yatra this year.