01-04-2026 : Address by Hon’ble Governor on the topic “Medical Issues and Road Accident Safety Measures During Char Dham Yatra”
Jai Hind!
First of all, I respectfully bow at the feet of Lord Badrivishal, Baba Kedarnath, Maa Gangotri, and Maa Yamunotri. This seminar organized on the sacred land of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand is not only a platform for discussion but also a serious and sensitive effort to protect human life and preserve the dignity of faith.
The topic we have gathered to discuss today—“Medical Issues and Road Accident Safety Measures during the Char Dham Yatra”—is directly related to the lives, health, and safety of millions of devotees. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire team of HNB Uttarakhand Medical Education University for organizing this important seminar.
The holy shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Hemkund Sahib in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand are not just pilgrimage sites but living centers of India’s eternal culture, faith, and spiritual consciousness. This journey is not merely about दर्शन (darshan), but also a test of self-purification, patience, discipline, and faith.
Brothers and sisters,
These sacred shrines, located in the lap of the Himalayas, are as divine as they are geographically challenging. High altitude, low air pressure, reduced oxygen levels, narrow paths, unpredictable weather, and steep climbs make this journey difficult. For pilgrims coming from the plains, these changes place additional stress on the body.
In this context, health issues at high altitudes are extremely serious. Due to insufficient oxygen, conditions such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can occur. Symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty in breathing are often mistaken for normal tiredness, which can lead to severe consequences.
Additionally, serious conditions such as fluid accumulation in the lungs and swelling of the brain may also occur, which are life-threatening. Therefore, it is essential to create awareness among pilgrims and ensure early medical intervention.
I would like to clearly state that “Faith with caution” should be the guiding principle of this journey. Every pilgrim must undergo a health check-up before starting the journey. Elderly individuals and those suffering from heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory issues must consult a doctor before traveling.
During the journey, it is important to ascend gradually, drink adequate water, allow the body time to acclimatize, and avoid excessive exertion. These small precautions can prevent major problems.
Now, I would like to draw your attention to another important aspect—road accident safety.
The mountain roads of Uttarakhand are world-famous for their beauty but are also highly sensitive due to their geographical structure. Narrow roads, sharp turns, deep gorges, the risk of landslides, and unpredictable weather increase the chances of accidents.
We all know that even a small negligence can lead to a major accident. Therefore, road safety is not just about following rules—it is about discipline, patience, and responsibility.
Drivers must maintain controlled speed, follow guidelines, and remain fully alert. Overtaking unnecessarily, especially on bends, must be avoided. Driving while fatigued is extremely risky, so proper rest is essential before travel.
I would also like to emphasize that driving under the influence of alcohol must be strictly avoided. It is not only illegal but also endangers lives.
Brothers and sisters,
The concept of the “Golden Hour” is extremely important in road accidents. If an injured person receives proper medical assistance within one hour of the accident, most lives can be saved. For this, we need to further strengthen our emergency medical systems.
I am pleased to know that the state government is continuously strengthening medical camps, mobile medical units, ambulance services, and emergency medical facilities along the Char Dham routes. Telemedicine services are also proving highly useful in ensuring access to expert doctors in remote areas.
Today, a souvenir related to “Safe Char Dham Yatra” has been released. I hope it serves not just as a document but as a practical guide for every traveler. It is our collective responsibility to ensure it reaches as many people as possible.
I would also like to request the medical experts, researchers, and students present here to conduct more research on health issues in Himalayan regions. We must develop health policies and systems suited to the unique conditions of these areas.
At the same time, local communities should be actively involved. Taxi drivers, mule operators, hotel owners, and local volunteers can play a crucial role as first responders in emergencies. If they are trained in first aid, many precious lives can be saved.
Brothers and sisters,
The Char Dham Yatra is not just a matter of Uttarakhand but a symbol of faith for the entire nation. It represents national unity, bringing together people from across the country with a shared devotion. Ensuring their safety is our highest duty.
We must resolve to make the Char Dham Yatra accessible, safe, and well-organized. Coordination between administration, health departments, local communities, and pilgrims is essential.
Our goal should not only be to expand facilities but also to make them more sensitive and efficient. Our responsibility does not end until every pilgrim returns home safely and satisfied.
In our vision of “Developed India 2047,” Uttarakhand has a crucial role. We must establish a Himalayan development model that balances pilgrimage, tourism, and health safety.
I am confident that the insights and conclusions from this seminar will help make our policies and systems more effective in the future.
In conclusion, I once again congratulate the organizers, experts, and participants for this meaningful discussion. Let us all pledge to make this sacred journey in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand safe, healthy, and successful.
I pray to God to protect all devotees, grant them good health, and give us the strength to fulfill this sacred responsibility.
Vande Mataram! Bharat Mata Ki Jai! Jai Hind!