Yatra Postponed Following Adverse Reconnaissance Report
The Kinner-Kailash Yatra in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, scheduled to commence on July 1, has been indefinitely postponed after a special reconnaissance team deemed the pilgrimage route unsafe for travelers. The team identified multiple hazards including large glaciers, unstable boulders, and rock fall zones that pose a serious threat to the lives of pilgrims and emergency response personnel.
Local Opposition and Deities' Displeasure
Prior to the postponement, Kinnaur residents and members of the Dev Samaj, an association of local deity custodians, submitted a memorandum to Kinnaur Deputy Commissioner requesting cancellation of the yatra. They cited environmental degradation and the displeasure of local deities with the pilgrimage. Baldev Singh, a member of Dev Samaj from gram panchayat Pawari, stated: "Water sources have been polluted. Our holy flower and other medicinal plants are on the verge of extinction. Many more deities have spoken against the yatra. We fear ignoring their warning can bring misfortune and disaster to the area."
Route Hazards Detailed by Recce Team
The reconnaissance team reported that large glaciers extend approximately 16-17 km along the pilgrimage route, particularly on the stretch from Miling Khata to the Shivling. Large rocks and boulders resting precariously on and within these glaciers render the terrain highly unstable. Additionally, the segment between Gufa and Sorang is obstructed by boulders at multiple locations, making passage unsafe for pilgrims. Removal of these boulders will require sufficient time, specialized equipment, and necessary safety precautions, according to the report.
Administration's Directive
In light of these findings, the district administration has urged all devotees and pilgrims not to undertake the pilgrimage until further orders. The administration will review the postponement only after the pilgrimage route is certified as safe and suitable for travel. The decision underscores the priority given to human safety and environmental preservation in the region.
