Dehradun: The pilgrimage to the four Himalayan shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and
Yamunotri, popularly known as the `Char Dham Yatra`, would begin from Friday.
The yatra was closed for tourists due to cyclonic conditions that prevailed last year. The Gangotri, Yamunotri and Kedarnath had been closed on November 6, 7 and 18
respectively.
"The region suffered huge losses after the yatra was hit by natural calamities like cyclones and cloudbursts last year," Suratram Nautiyal, Vice President of Char Dham Vikas
Parishad, said.
Arrangements have been made to accommodate tourists in
water-proof tents free of cost during the yatra this year,
officials said.
"Once the dormitories, hotels and lodges are completely
booked, we will set up tents for the public. As many as 2,000
tourists can take shelter in them," Anusuya Prasad Bhatt,
President of Badrinath-Kedarnath Samiti, said.
PTI
