Hemkunt Sahib, May 4: Indian Army personnel and volunteers reached the Sri Hemkunt Sahib Gurudwara complex Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage season. The arrival of the 418 Independent Field Company of the 9 Mountain Brigade, alongside sevadars from the Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust, allowed for the official opening of the complex gates following a traditional Ardas prayer.
Establishing a permanent base at the shrine, situated at an altitude of 15,200 feet, eliminates the need for the team to retreat to Ghangharia each evening. This presence at the summit facilitates continuous work on the challenging Himalayan terrain. The joint team is now focused on widening the downward trek connecting the shrine to the Atalkoti Glacier Point to ensure a safer passage for the thousands of devotees expected later this month.
“The team will now undertake the task of widening the downward trek leading from Hemkunt Sahib to the Atalkoti Glacier Point, with the aim of making the route more accessible and safer for pilgrims,” the Management Trust affirmed in an official statement.
The Indian Army has maintained a decades-long tradition of clearing these paths, navigating extreme weather and steep geography to serve the Sikh community. Trust officials noted that this collaborative effort demonstrates a unique spirit of selfless service. The holy portals of the shrine are scheduled to open on May 23, with the inaugural batch of pilgrims departing from Rishikesh on May 20.
“Their courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment—demonstrated amidst extreme weather and challenging conditions—are deeply appreciated by the Sikh community and all devotees alike,” the Trust declared while acknowledging the bravery of the soldiers.
