Proposal to change Char Dham Yatra Starting Point 

Officials are currently considering a proposal to move the starting point of the Char Dham Yatra from Rishikesh to Haridwar. Arun Mohan Joshi the Uttarakhand Inspector General (IG) of traffic shared that a review is in progress, with a feasibility study being conducted by a team led by the Superintendent of Police (Traffic) in Haridwar. According to TOI report, a final decision is expected before the next travel season.

Optimizing Resources and Enhancing Pilgrimage Encounters

According to IG Joshi, the aim of the traffic directorate is to leverage all available state resources to strengthen the local economy and provide seamless pilgrimage for visitors. "We are focusing on using every suitable location in the state to boost the local economy and ensure the success of the yatra while providing a pleasant experience for the pilgrims," ​​he said. A possible new starting point is the Bairagi Camp in Haridwar which is part of the Kumbh Mela land. This site is being considered due to the availability of adequate parking and other necessary facilities. Joshi assured that this change will not reduce the existing facilities in Rishikesh and it will remain accessible to pilgrims.

Currently, the Char Dham Yatra begins from Rishikesh, where pilgrims usually follow the traditional route to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. The proposed changes are seen as a way to improve traffic management and distribution while traveling in Haridwar.
Infrastructure needs and economic benefits

Infrastructure Needs and Economic Benefits 

The Bairagi camp in Haridwar has long been used for the annual Kanwar carnival. Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Pankaj Gairola said that if the place is chosen for the Char Dham Yatra, additional arrangements will be required, including parking facilities and service counters. "If the site is selected, we will have to cooperate with the PWD, Municipal Corporation and other stakeholders to put up a parking lot and other infrastructure," he said.

This potential change could greatly benefit Haridwar’s economy, especially the tourism and hospitality sectors. Highlighting the positive impact of such a move, Kailash Keshwani, vice-chairman, Chamber of Commerce and Industry of India, said, “These changes will boost the city’s hotel and tourism industry significantly.”This potential change could greatly benefit Haridwar’s economy, especially the tourism and hospitality sectors. Highlighting the positive impact of such a move, Kailash Keshwani, vice-chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, “These changes will boost the city’s hotel and tourism sector significantly.”