Kedarnath Yatra on High Alert: 72 Pilgrims Airlifted Amid Health Emergencies
Uttarakhand authorities intensify medical preparedness as difficult weather and high-altitude conditions leave dozens of devotees ill and injured during the pilgrimage.
Dehradun, June 5: The Health Department in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district has been placed on high alert during the ongoing Kedarnath Yatra, as several pilgrims continue to face health complications due to the region’s high altitude and difficult weather conditions. So far, 72 pilgrims suffering from illness and injuries have been airlifted to safer medical facilities for treatment.
According to health officials, many pilgrims have reported respiratory issues, chest infections, and injuries sustained during the challenging trek to Kedarnath Dham. Critically ill and injured devotees are being evacuated by helicopter from Kedarnath to Phata and Guptkashi, where they are receiving advanced medical care. In severe cases, patients are further shifted to higher medical centres, including AIIMS, through air ambulance services.
District Magistrate Vishal Mishra confirmed the rescue operations, stating that approximately 72 pilgrims have been successfully rescued from Kedarnath Dham via helicopter. He explained that the affected individuals suffered from a variety of health concerns, including breathing difficulties, infections in the chest and lungs, and leg injuries.
“Medical facilities and hospitals remain operational along the Kedarnath trek route. Doctors have been stationed at multiple locations, and more than 13 medical relief points have been established to ensure immediate assistance. The Health Department is functioning with full vigilance and preparedness,” Mishra said.
Authorities have urged pilgrims to take proper health precautions while undertaking the yatra, particularly considering the physically demanding terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
Earlier, continuous rainfall in the upper Himalayan regions forced authorities to temporarily suspend the movement of pilgrims heading towards Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Hemkund Sahib as a precautionary measure. Vehicles carrying pilgrims were halted in Srinagar Garhwal until weather conditions and route safety assessments are completed.
Officials are closely monitoring weather updates and road conditions, and pilgrim movement will resume only after routes are declared safe for travel.
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