3 Deaths Per Day Since Char Dham Yatra Began In Uttarakhand, Pilgrim Footfall Crosses 37 Lakh

Published 20 June 2026 · india

3 Deaths Per Day Since Char Dham Yatra Began In Uttarakhand, Pilgrim Footfall Crosses 37 Lakh Published By, Last Updated: June 20, 2026, 18:07 IST

3 Deaths Per Day Since Char Dham Yatra Began In Uttarakhand, Pilgrim Footfall Crosses 37 Lakh Published By, Last Updated: June 20, 2026, 18:07 IST Over 37 lakh pilgrims have visited Char Dham shrines since April, with 198 deaths reported, mostly health related, as authorities stress medical screening and safety measures. More than 37 lakh devotees have visited Uttarakhand’s Char Dham shrines since the annual pilgrimage began in April, while 198 deaths have been reported during the ongoing yatra season, according to official data. Data released by the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) showed that a total of 37.35 lakh pilgrims had undertaken the pilgrimage till June 18, underscoring the massive turnout at the four Himalayan shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.

Nearly 200 Deaths Reported Officials said 198 fatalities have been recorded among pilgrims during the current pilgrimage season. Most deaths reported during the Char Dham Yatra are generally linked to health complications, particularly among elderly devotees undertaking the physically demanding journey at high altitudes. Earlier official data had shown that a majority of fatalities were reported on routes leading to Kedarnath, where the steep trek and challenging terrain often pose health risks for pilgrims with pre-existing medical conditions. Pilgrim Numbers Continue To Surge The 2026 Char Dham Yatra has witnessed one of its strongest turnouts in recent years, with registrations crossing 50 lakh even before the peak pilgrimage season concludes. Authorities expect the final footfall to surpass previous records if the current trend continues.

Officials have credited improved infrastructure, better road connectivity and extensive administrative arrangements for facilitating the large number of pilgrims visiting the shrines this year. Authorities Stress Health Precautions Given the challenging conditions in the high Himalayas, authorities continue to advise elderly pilgrims and those with existing heart, respiratory or other serious health conditions to undergo medical screening before undertaking the yatra. The Uttarakhand government has deployed medical teams, oxygen-equipped beds, ambulances and health screening facilities along the pilgrimage routes to assist devotees during the season. The Char Dham Yatra remains one of India’s largest annual religious pilgrimages, drawing millions of devotees from across the country to the sacred Himalayan temples each year. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad.