Char Dham Yatra to commence from July 1, but only for state residents; SOP issued in light of COVID-19

The Char Dham Yatra is all set to commence from July 1. The Uttarakhand Devasthanam Management Board has decided to open the yatra only for pilgrims from within the state in a move to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Char Dham comprises four famous Himalayan shrines, i.e., Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri, which falls in Uttarakhand's Garhwal region.
Accordingly, the Temple Board’s CEP Ravinath Raman issued an order permitting Uttarakhand residents to visit the said from July 1, which will be subject to various restrictions and precautionary measures. However, those from the quarantine centres and containment zones within the state, will not be allowed to take part in the pilgrimage.
And the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the authorities are as follows:

• E-Passes are applicable for residents of the state only, and are valid for the darshan at the temple during the visit to the temple.
• Anybody showing symptoms like breathlessness, fever, and cough, they should avoid visiting the shrine, and also refrain from applying for re-pass.
• The yatra passes will remain valid only for two days.
• After a visit, the yatra e-pass will be null and void.
• For e-passes, pilgrims will need to check out the website: badrinath-kedarnath.gov.
• Yatra e-passes can't be used to visit any other places nearby except.
• As per the SOP, pilgrims need to maintain social distancing, wear face masks, and follow all the safety protocols issued by central/state governments with regard to COVID-19.
• If anybody shows any kind of symptoms, he/she should immediately contact the administration.
• Hand sanitizers will be provided at the entrance of the temple.
• Pilgrims will not be allowed to touch any idols during the visit to the temple.
• Pilgrims will have to provide photo, upload ID proof, and medical documents if they have tested for Coronavirus, are suffering from any chronic disease, or have been in quarantine before.
• While applying for e-passes, pilgrims will be required to mention their travel history of one month.
• Temple authorities, without any prior notice, can amend the guidelines and can refuse entry of pilgrims into the temple premises.