Maharaj says Char Dham Yatra progressing smoothly, beware of misleading social media posts
PIONEER NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
Tourism and Culture minister Satpal Maharaj said that the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is progressing smoothly and systematically. He urged pilgrims not to pay attention to misleading and outdated videos or false information circulating on social media platforms. According to him, certain individuals are posting old or irrelevant videos to spread rumours about overcharging pilgrims, which can create unnecessary panic and tarnish the state’s reputation.
Maharaj stated that unemployed youth take loans and start small businesses along the Char Dham routes and such misleading content affects their livelihood. He clarified that if prices of items appear slightly higher than in the plains, it is mainly due to increased transportation costs in reaching these remote locations. He appealed to the public not to post unnecessary or fake videos and information that may confuse or mislead pilgrims.
The minister also requested local shopkeepers to uphold the spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava by maintaining service quality and offering goods at fair prices to ensure that the number of tourists visiting Uttarakhand continues to rise. He said that the State takes the comfort and hospitality of pilgrims very seriously and encouraged pilgrims to file written complaints if they face overcharging or any mistreatment. Maharaj said that since the registration for the Char Dham Yatra began on 30 April 2025, a total of 26.49 lakh pilgrims have already registered and nearly 2.5 lakh pilgrims have visited the shrines so far.
Based on the bookings at Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) guesthouses, he stated that a large number of devotees are expected to undertake the Yatra. Since February 2025, online and offline bookings at GMVN guest houses have generated over Rs 12.45 crore, reflecting the scale of interest and participation in the pilgrimage, he added
