No Snowfall at Kedarnath as Climate Change Raises Concerns.
Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, which normally receives at least five feet of snow by this time of year, did not witness any snowfall till Tuesday, raising alarm among environmentalists.
The lack of snow is causing drought-like conditions in the region and posing challenges for labourers involved in Kedarnath’s reconstruction work, who can now manage only 3–4 hours of work per day. The pilgrimage this year was also affected by extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall, cloudbursts, floods, and landslides.
Environmental experts point to climate change, pollution, deforestation, and unplanned construction as key factors impacting the Himalayas. Rising temperatures and erratic snowfall patterns have left snow insufficient to accumulate, while limited rainfall and dry weather contribute to dust and smog. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Uttarakhand cities such as Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Kashipur has worsened, affecting both residents and tourists.
During the Chardham Yatra this year, which includes Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Badrinath, over 50 lakh pilgrims visited the region before the winter closure. Kedarnath alone recorded 17.68 lakh visitors since opening on May 2, before closing in October. With the shrine now closed, the worship of Baba Kedarnath will continue at his winter residence in Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath.
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