Preparations Underway for Shri Manimahesh Yatra 2026 in Bharmour
Meeting to Discuss Yatra Arrangements
Mahinder Patyal
Bharmour
A crucial meeting was convened at the Sub-Divisional Headquarters in Bharmour to assess the preparations for the upcoming Shri Manimahesh Yatra 2026. The session was led by Mukesh Repswal, the Deputy Commissioner of Chamba and Chairman of the Trust, held in the conference hall of the Mini Secretariat.
Special guest Dr. Janak Raj, MLA for the Bharmour–Pangi constituency, was also in attendance.
During the meeting, DC Repswal urged all relevant departments, langar committees, vendors, and other stakeholders to comply with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regulations. He stressed the importance of managing plastic waste scientifically, reducing single-use plastics, and establishing effective waste management systems to keep the pilgrimage route clean, safe, and environmentally friendly.
It was announced that online registration and slot booking for pilgrims will commence on August 1, 2026, via the official website www.manimaheshyatra.hp.gov.in. Initially, the number of slots will be limited to 5,000 pilgrims daily, mirroring the Amarnath Yatra model. This number may be increased during special events like Krishna Janmashtami and Radhashtami, contingent on weather and security conditions.
The meeting also evaluated the arrangements for drinking water, sanitation, medical services, electricity, communication, and cleanliness along the Bharmour–Manimahesh route.
Key directives included:
- Roads & Infrastructure: The PWD and NHAI were instructed to prioritize the restoration of NH-154A and all damaged roads from Bharmour to Hadsar. Tasks such as debris clearance, repairs of culverts and retaining walls, and installation of parapets and signage must be completed by August 15.
- Water Supply: The Jal Shakti Department was assigned to repair pipelines, tanks, and sources at Dhancho, Gauri Kund, and Manimahesh Lake. Temporary storage tanks will be established to ensure clean drinking water at every stop.
- Sanitation: Sufficient water supply near toilets must be guaranteed.
- Traffic & Security: Additional police personnel will be deployed to manage traffic on the Bharmour–Hadsar route. Heavy vehicles will be restricted during the fair, and designated parking areas must be utilized. Drone surveillance will be employed for security, traffic, and crowd management.
The meeting saw participation from ADM Bharmour Vikas Sharma, SDM Bharmour Ajay Kumar, DFO Wildlife Chamba Nawnath Shivaji Mane, SE NHAI Shashi Chandel, EE Jal Shakti Vijay Nag, AE Jal Shakti Vivek Chandel, AE PWD Sanjeev Sharma, BDO Bharmour Sanjay Verma, BMO Bharmour Dr. Dipesh Baral, Sub-Divisional Ayurvedic Officer Dr. Rajesh Kumar, SHO Bharmour Babu Ram, along with Gram Panchayat heads Tanuja Devi (Sanchui), Rashmi Devi (Hadsar), Reena Kumari (Kugti), and Trade Association President Mahinder Patial, among others.