Tag: Gangotri

#faith

Char Dham Yatra Resumes on September 6 After Rain Halt

allycaralgoa

The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is set to resume on September 6 after being suspended for five days due to incessant heavy rainfall and landslides. Authorities had temporarily halted the pilgrimage to ensure the safety of devotees traveling to the sacred shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. With improved weather conditions, the state government has announced the reopening of routes for pilgrims, while also urging caution during travel.

In the wake of widespread damage caused by the monsoon across the state, the Uttarakhand government has formally requested ₹5,702.15 crore in financial assistance from the central government. This funding is expected to aid in rebuilding critical infrastructure, repairing roads, restoring communication lines, and addressing the devastation to both public and private property.

Officials emphasized that while the pilgrimage is resuming, continuous monitoring of weather conditions and landslide-prone areas will remain a priority to avoid risks. Thousands of devotees undertake the Char Dham Yatra annually, making it one of the most significant pilgrimages in the Hindu faith, and the restoration of safe passage is vital for both religious and economic reasons.

The resumption of the Yatra reflects not only the devotion of pilgrims but also the resilience of Uttarakhand in overcoming natural challenges, even as it awaits federal support to recover from the monsoon’s impact.

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Goa Launches Ro-Ro Ferries ‘Dwarka’ & ‘Gangotri’ on Mandovi River

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Goa has added a modern touch to its rich maritime legacy with the launch of two state-of-the-art Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferries — Dwarka and Gangotri — on the Chodan–Ribandar waterway route across the Mandovi River.

Inaugurated on July 14th by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, the event saw the presence of Union MoS for New & Renewable Energy Shripad Naik, RND Minister Subhash Phal Dessai, Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Mayem MLA Premendra Shet, and Inland Waterways Secretary Cheshta Yadav, IAS.

The project, worth ₹25 crore, was executed through a public-private partnership (PPP) with Vijai Marine Shipyards, a Goan shipbuilding firm known for its innovation and quality.

“These ferries will enhance eco-friendly and efficient transport, reduce traffic congestion, and serve as a model for inland water transport across India,” said the Chief Minister during the launch.

Boost to Connectivity and Eco-Transport

The Ro-Ro ferries are equipped to carry both passengers and vehicles, serving as a lifeline for residents, especially islanders who frequently travel between Chodan and Ribandar. The launch aligns with Goa’s broader goal of developing smart transport infrastructure using its vast network of rivers.

Officials also hinted at plans to replicate this model across eight additional waterway routes in the state, with studies already underway to identify viable corridors.

Maritime Innovation from Goa to the Nation

Vijai Marine Shipyards, praised by the CM during the launch, has established itself as a key player in India’s coastal and inland vessel sector. The Dwarka and Gangotri ferries represent locally manufactured, globally relevant solutions — a testament to Goa’s industrial capabilities.

This initiative is not just about connectivity — it’s about shaping a sustainable, modern, and resilient future for Goa. By tapping into its rivers, the state is embracing clean mobility, reducing carbon footprints, and offering residents an affordable, efficient alternative to road transport.