Hemkund Sahib: More than half of the Hemkund Gurudwara covered with snow, the lake also turned into snow, see photos
The world-renowned Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, nestled in the majestic snow-capped mountains, is currently blanketed in about 12 feet of snow. Even the revered Laxman temple is partially submerged under the thick white cover. As the pilgrimage to Hemkund Sahib is set to commence on May 20, the management of the Gurudwara faces the daunting task of clearing the snow from the sacred Astha Path, the pathway leading to the Gurudwara. Narendrajit Singh Bindra, the President of Gurdwara Shri Hemkund Sahib Trust, shared that the snow-clearing operation is scheduled to commence on April 20.
Recently, the first picture of Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara emerged after the snowfall, revealing the pristine beauty of the surroundings. Army personnel was also deployed to assess the situation and inspect the path of faith, ensuring the safety and accessibility of the pilgrimage route. The challenging task of removing the thick snow from the Astha Path requires meticulous planning and effort to ensure that pilgrims can embark on their spiritual journey to Hemkund Sahib safely. Despite the formidable task ahead, the management of Hemkund Sahib remains committed to upholding the sanctity of this revered pilgrimage site and facilitating the pilgrimage for devotees from around the world.
According to Trust Chairman Bindra, the crucial task of clearing the snow from the yatra route leading up to Hemkund Sahib is entrusted to the Indian Army every year. Under the supervision of Brigadier Aman Anand, Officer Commander Sunil Yadav of 418 Independent Corps, along with Captain Manik Sharma, Subedar Major Nekchand, and Havildar Harsewak Singh, the yatra route and the prevailing snow conditions were thoroughly assessed. The Indian Army plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and accessibility of the pilgrimage route, utilizing its expertise and resources to clear the snow and make way for the pilgrims to undertake their spiritual journey to Hemkund Sahib. Their diligent efforts are instrumental in facilitating a smooth and secure pilgrimage experience for the devotees visiting this revered Gurudwara.
The Yatra route to Hemkund Sahib is currently facing significant challenges due to the harsh winter weather. The Atlakoti Glacier along the route is frozen with about 10 feet of snow, and Hemkund Sahib itself is covered in eight to 12 feet of snow, with even the sacred Hemkund Sarovar completely buried under the snow. Senior manager of Govindghat Gurdwara, Sardar Sewa Singh, conducted an inspection of the Gurdwara upon reaching Ghangaria, which is the main stop on the Yatra route. In preparation for the upcoming pilgrimage season, arrangements are being made to start langar, the community kitchen providing free food, for the servants of the trust from April 15. Additionally, arrangements will be made to provide accommodation and food for the army personnel stationed in Ghangaria, who play a crucial role in the snow-clearing efforts and ensuring the safety of the pilgrims during the yatra. Despite the formidable snow conditions, the Hemkund Sahib management and trust are diligently working to make necessary arrangements for the upcoming pilgrimage season and ensure the well-being of the pilgrims and the army personnel involved in the snow-clearing operation.
Efforts are underway to improve the road conditions along the Hemkund Sahib Yatra route. The Public Works Department has deployed around 70 workers to work on road improvement between Bhundar and Ghangharia. According to EE Surendra Patwal from Lonivi, the culvert, and Khadancha on the travel route are being improved, and railings are being installed, with the work nearing completion. In addition, the bends of the road beyond Bhundar have been widened to ensure the smooth movement of horses and mules, without causing any inconvenience to the pilgrims. Furthermore, drains are being constructed along the route to manage water flow and ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims during their journey to Hemkund Sahib. These road improvement efforts are aimed at enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience and ensuring the safety of the pilgrims as they undertake their sacred yatra to Hemkund Sahib.
The pilgrimage to Hemkund Sahib on foot can be extremely challenging, as pilgrims have to cover a distance of about 15 kilometers from Pulna to Hemkund Sahib, which can take a toll on the health of many elderly pilgrims. In the past, there have been cases of pilgrims facing health issues and even losing their lives due to a lack of prompt medical assistance at Hemkund Sahib. However, this year, a helipad has been constructed at Atlakudi, which is approximately two kilometers from Hemkund Sahib. As a result, a Heli ambulance service will be introduced to provide timely medical assistance to pilgrims in case of health emergencies. If a pilgrim’s health deteriorates, they will be immediately airlifted to Govindghat by helicopter, from where they can be transported to the hospital by vehicle for necessary medical treatment. This initiative aims to ensure the well-being and safety of the pilgrims undertaking the Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage, especially those who may face health challenges during the journey.
