Shrikhand Mahadev yatra called off as landslide, flash flood threat looms
The Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra, one of the most popular pilgrimages in Himachal Pradesh, has been suspended until further orders amid concerns over the safety of
The Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra, one of the most popular pilgrimages in Himachal Pradesh, has been suspended until further orders amid concerns over the safety of devotees due to unsafe routes and increasing monsoon risks. Kullu District Collector Anurag Chandra Sharma issued an order to halt the pilgrimage under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The decision was taken following a joint inspection report by experts. The report flagged both the existing route from Bhimdwari to Parvati Bagh and a proposed alternative route as highly unsafe for pilgrims.
Read Full Story During the inspection, it was found that the entire stretch is vulnerable to landslides, falling rocks, flash floods, and soil erosion, making a major accident possible at any time. It also noted that carrying out rescue and relief operations in the event of an emergency would be extremely difficult. Located at an altitude of around 18,570 feet, the Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra is considered one of the most difficult and demanding pilgrimages in the country. Every year, thousands of devotees from across India undertake the arduous journey, crossing steep mountain trails, glaciers, and challenging climbs to seek darshan of Lord Shiva.
The order also stated that the monsoon is likely to become active from July 1, increasing the risk of landslides, cloudbursts, and flash floods. In such conditions, the administration said, conducting the pilgrimage would not be in the interest of devotees. The district administration has directed that all temporary camps, tents, ration stores, and other structures set up for the yatra be removed within three days. Police, forest, and local administration teams have also been instructed to enforce a complete ban on movement along the route and ensure strict compliance with the order.
The administration said that while faith is respected, the safety of pilgrims remains the top priority under the prevailing conditions. It added that violations will attract strict action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other applicable laws. Ends (With inputs from Manminder Arora)
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