Uttarakhand: Kedarnath glows amid snowfall, Gangotri freezes as temp drops to minus 11 to 12 degrees Celsius

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Rudraprayag: The start of the new year brought snowfall to Kedarnath Dham in Rudraprayag district. On January 1 and 2, the shrine and surrounding peaks were covered in a white blanket of snow. The temple shone like silver, creating a divine view that captivated devotees and locals.

Although the snowfall was not very heavy, the cold has intensified. The pond on the trekking route has frozen, and mechanical work at the shrine has been temporarily stopped. Daily life has slowed down as the extreme cold makes it difficult for people to move around.

Work at the shrine

Despite the harsh weather, work at Kedarnath shrine continues. District Magistrate Prateek Jain said that around 90 laborers are deployed at the site. The current light snowfall has allowed construction and repair work to continue. He added that the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the Chief Minister are monitoring the progress closely. If the weather remains favorable, the work will go on. Nature, meanwhile, has once again adorned Baba Kedar’s shrine with a supernatural beauty.

Gangotri freezes without snow

While Kedarnath received snowfall, Gangotri Dham in Uttarkashi district has not seen snow yet this season. However, the cold has been severe, with temperatures dropping to minus 11 to 12 degrees Celsius.

Rivers and streams have frozen completely, forming thick layers of frost. The Bhagirathi River is flowing very little due to ice several inches thick. Other streams like Kedar Ganga, Rishikur Nala, Pagal Nala, and Chidbasa Nala have also frozen.

Water supply is being managed by melting frost with fire. Drinking water lines have frozen, causing hardship for residents, temple staff, and police personnel stationed there.

Farmers and sadhus affected

Around 25 sadhus are meditating in Gangotri despite the freezing conditions. Six Gangotri National Park staff and two police personnel are also deployed, facing severe difficulties in the cold.

Farmers, especially apple orchardists, are worried. The lack of snowfall and rain is affecting crops like peas and wheat. They fear that the delay in snowfall could harm the agricultural cycle and reduce yields.

Cold wave challenges

The cold wave has disrupted normal life across Kedarnath and Gangotri. While Kedarnath shines beautifully under snow, Gangotri struggles with frozen rivers and water shortages. Both shrines highlight the challenges of extreme winter in Uttarakhand.