With the commencement of the Char Dham Yatra and in light of recent security developments under ‘Operation Sindoor’, the Uttarakhand government has significantly bolstered security arrangements across all four sacred sites—Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
For the first time, the responsibility for Badrinath’s security during the Yatra has been formally handed over to the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB), replacing the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), which had been managing security until now. The decision reflects increased alertness given the current tensions between India and Pakistan.
Strict surveillance measures have been implemented in Badrinath, where the ATS, ITBP, and local police forces are stationed at key points. Pilgrims are undergoing rigorous screening along with baggage checks before being allowed temple access. Authorities have urged devotees to avoid carrying heavy luggage to speed up the security process.
In Kedarnath, security has been fortified with the deployment of a bomb disposal squad and additional forces from the police, PAC, and paramilitary units. DSP Abhinay Chaudhary confirmed that all personnel are armed and vigilantly monitoring every suspicious activity. Entry to the temple area is strictly regulated through security checks.
Meanwhile, security at Gangotri and Yamunotri has also been scaled up. ATS teams were already in place following the recent temple openings, and now three ITBP platoons have been deployed — two at Gangotri and one along the Yamunotri route — following a request by the state government to the Centre.
Vehicle and passenger checks have been intensified along the pilgrimage routes. Joint teams from the police and ITBP are stationed at district entry points and key checkpoints to verify the identities of incoming workers and visitors. Background verification drives are also underway at all major halt points.
Advanced technology is being used to further enhance safety. According to Superintendent of Police Sarvesh Panwar, CCTV surveillance, drone patrolling, and metal detectors are now part of the standard operating procedure across the temple zones. Continuous verification and patrolling by IRB, ITBP, and ATS teams are helping to maintain high alert.
The state government has appealed to pilgrims for cooperation, emphasising that these strict measures are in place for their protection. Pilgrims are also urged to report any suspicious activity immediately to the nearest security personnel.
With heightened vigilance from security forces and growing awareness among pilgrims, officials hope that this year’s Char Dham Yatra will not only be a spiritual experience but also a safe and orderly one.
