Sixteen devotees lost their lives in natural disasters during this year’s Manimahesh Yatra in Chamba, Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal said. The pilgrimage concluded on Sunday under heavy rains and challenging conditions. Of the 16, seven died during the Manimahesh Kailash Parikrama, while nine others passed away at different points along the route.
The traditional royal bath in the Manimahesh Dal Lake on Radha Ashtami could not be performed this year. Instead, the ritual was carried out in 84 temple complexes across the region.
The administration had arranged helicopter services from Sachui to Gaurikund, but flights were cancelled due to bad weather. With rains and landslides worsening the situation, authorities were forced to ban the yatra before time, leaving nearly 15,000 pilgrims stranded in different areas.
Rescue teams from NDRF and SDRF worked round-the-clock to bring devotees back safely. Thousands of pilgrims were evacuated in extremely tough conditions from Manimahesh Dal Lake to Harsal and then Bharmour. Many roads had been damaged by landslides, making the rescue work slow and risky.
Over 10,000 devotees managed to reach Kalsui on foot. From there, buses of the Transport Corporation and private vehicles arranged by locals took them to Chamba, Pathankot, and Jammu.
By the evening of August 31, about 50 devotees were still stuck on the Harsil track near Gaurikund. Relief teams, police, medical staff, and langar committees stayed with them, ensuring they had food and support. They are expected to reach Bharmour safely by Monday evening. Around 4,000 devotees also remain in Bharmour and are slowly leaving for Chamba at their own pace.
Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal and Superintendent of Police Chamba personally visited the affected sites. They inspected walking tracks, oversaw the rescue work, and spoke to pilgrims who feared more casualties.
The DC urged devotees not to believe rumours being spread on social media or some channels. “Trust only the information shared by the administration. Our teams have reached every affected area. The safety and assistance of the devotees is our top priority. Please stay away from rumours and trust only the information given by the administration,” he said.
"Although this time the Manimahesh Yatra was very difficult due to natural disasters, but the vigilance and service spirit of the administration, relief workers and local people ensured the safe return of thousands of devotees. The traditions may have remained incomplete, but the spirit of humanity and service made this journey meaningful," he added.
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