Temporary Suspension of Pilgrimage to Madmaheshwar Temple in Uttarakhand

Pilgrimage Halted for Safety Reasons

In Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, the pilgrimage to the Madmaheshwar Temple, located at an elevation of 11,473 feet, has been temporarily suspended due to safety concerns for travelers. This decision was announced by officials on Saturday.

District Magistrate Vishal Mishra of Rudraprayag issued the order after assessing reports from officials, deeming the footpath leading to Madmaheshwar as hazardous.

Reaching this significant temple in the Panchkedars series requires a 14.50-kilometer trek. Ongoing construction and landslides have made the route perilous. According to officials, adverse weather conditions, landslide incidents, and safety risks along the travel path have led to the suspension of the pilgrimage until further notice.

It was noted that many pilgrims are ignoring safety warnings and are attempting to traverse landslide-affected areas, taking photos and selfies in risky locations, which raises the likelihood of serious accidents. Additionally, a temporary wooden bridge over the Morhanda River in Bantoli has been washed away due to rising water levels, necessitating the use of a trolley to cross the river.

Officials mentioned that the trolley can only accommodate two individuals at a time, but the influx of devotees during the Sawan and Kanwar Yatra has resulted in overcrowding and chaos at the trolley site. There have been instances of passengers mistreating trolley operators and workers, as well as competing to take pictures, which has posed significant safety challenges. The Public Works Department has indicated that repairs and maintenance for the trolley will take at least two to three days.