Pilgrims visiting Kedarnath Dham will soon have access to round-the-clock hot water, as the Uttarakhand government plans to install biomass-powered geysers at the high-altitude shrine.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the new system will replace the existing cold water supply. The geysers will run on biomass pellets made from pine needles and mule dung, marking what officials describe as the first such initiative at this altitude, The News Mill reported.
The facilities will be set up at properties managed by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam in Kedarnath and Lincholi.
Officials said the project also aims to tackle environmental challenges along the Kedarnath Yatra route by using mule waste and reducing the risk of forest fires caused by dry pine needles. As part of a pilot effort, roadside eateries on the route will be provided with pellet-based stoves, which could help during fuel shortages and may be expanded if successful.
The announcement comes ahead of the Char Dham Yatra, which began on April 19. Dhami welcomed pilgrims from across the country and abroad, expressing hope for a safe and smooth yatra season.
He said the state government is closely monitoring preparations to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for visitors, with the aim of making the pilgrimage memorable for all.
