Kedarnath Yatra – Police Intensify Anti-Liquor and Drug Drive During Pilgrimage Season
Kedarnath Yatra –The Shri Kedarnath Yatra is progressing under heightened security measures as authorities continue a large-scale campaign against illegal liquor and narcotics while urging pilgrims to remain alert amid challenging weather conditions.
The Rudraprayag Police have stepped up enforcement efforts to preserve the spiritual atmosphere and orderly conduct of the Shri Kedarnath Yatra. Dedicated police teams deployed across the district are carrying out continuous inspections to prevent the smuggling and sale of illicit liquor and banned substances during one of Uttarakhand’s most significant religious pilgrimages. Officials said the campaign is intended to ensure that devotees can complete their journey in a safe and disciplined environment.
Police Share Details of Enforcement Campaign
Speaking about the ongoing operations, Rudraprayag Superintendent of Police Niharika Tomar said that special teams were formed across the district with the objective of protecting the sanctity of the pilgrimage and taking strict action against illegal liquor and narcotics. According to the police, enforcement activities have remained active throughout the yatra period, with officers maintaining surveillance at multiple checkpoints and sensitive locations.
The police have so far registered around 53 cases under the Excise Act and arrested 58 people in connection with violations. During these operations, authorities seized nearly 2,000 litres of liquor along with five litres of illegally manufactured country-made liquor. In addition, 15 vehicles allegedly linked to these activities have been impounded. Officials estimated the value of the confiscated liquor at approximately Rs 12 lakh.
NDPS Cases Also Under Investigation
Apart from the action against illegal liquor, the police are also continuing a focused crackdown on narcotics under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Authorities confirmed that five cases have been registered under the law, including one involving a commercial quantity of prohibited substances.
During these operations, police recovered 1 kilogram and 838 grams of charas along with 15 grams of smack. The estimated market value of the seized narcotics is around Rs 6.34 lakh. SP Tomar said enforcement teams remain on constant alert and that legal action against those involved in drug trafficking will continue throughout the pilgrimage season.
Security Measures to Continue Throughout the Yatra
Officials stressed that surveillance against illegal activities will remain in place until the conclusion of the Kedarnath pilgrimage. Police personnel have been instructed to maintain regular inspections and strengthen monitoring in areas experiencing heavy pilgrim movement. Authorities believe these measures are essential for ensuring both public safety and the spiritual character of the yatra.
Heavy Rain Raises Landslide Concerns
Alongside the security operations, the district continues to face weather-related challenges. Persistent rainfall across Rudraprayag has increased the possibility of landslides at several locations, creating additional concerns for residents and pilgrims travelling through the region.
Near Agastyamuni, fresh cracks have reportedly appeared on a hillside overlooking a road that connects nearby villages, prompting concerns about slope stability. At the same time, several vulnerable stretches along the Kedarnath and Badrinath National Highways have become active due to the ongoing rains, affecting road conditions and causing inconvenience to commuters.
Administration Issues Safety Advisory
Keeping the weather situation in mind, the Rudraprayag district administration has advised pilgrims to remain cautious during their journey and strictly follow official safety instructions. Authorities have urged travellers to stay informed about weather updates, avoid unnecessary risks in landslide-prone areas, and cooperate with local officials to ensure a safe pilgrimage.