The delay stemmed from the catastrophic flash flood triggered by a sudden cloudburst in the village of Dharali, which violently swept away homes, shops, and infrastructure, cut off crucial roads, and resulted in multiple casualties and missing persons.
The district administration and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) joined forces to clear the debris and rehabilitate the afflicted segment of the Gangotri National Highway—efforts that were pivotal in restoring pilgrimage access to the sacred shrine.
To safeguard pilgrim safety and ensure orderly access, the authorities have instituted a controlled shuttle service along the reopened route. This measure will facilitate regulated movement and minimize risks along the mountain highway.
Resuming access to Gangotri Dham has offered a vital reprieve to the local economy. Shailendra Matuda, president of the district’s hotel association, noted that those involved in the Char Dham pilgrimage breathed a huge sigh of relief once the Gangotri route reopened.
This reopening marks a pivotal step toward recovery in the wake of one of the region’s most severe disruptions since the 2013 Kedarnath floods. With the Char Dham Yatra facing its worst suspension this year—including over 50 days of closures across the four shrines—the return of Gangotri Dham is especially significant.
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