Rishikesh: A team from the Army’s 418 Independent Field Company (9 Mountain Brigade), along with sewadars (volunteers) of Gurdwara Sri Hemkund Sahib Management Trust, successfully reached the main complex of Sri Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara on Sunday, marking a significant milestone ahead of the annual pilgrimage.
Sri Hemkund Sahib, one of the most revered Sikh pilgrimage sites, is located at an altitude of nearly 4,632 metres (15,200 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas and is surrounded by seven snow-clad peaks and the pristine Hemkund Lake.
The team performed ardas and then opened the gates of the Gurdwara complex, as reported by The Tribune.
This would now enable the team to stay within the premises and begin preparations, including making the langar area, accommodation facilities, washrooms and electricity supply operational, Trust president Narinder Jit Singh Bin
dra said.
“Earlier, the team had to return to Ghangaria every evening. They will now be able to continue their work while stationed at the Hemkund Sahib complex itself,” he said.
The portals of the sanctum sanctorum would be opened on May 23, while the first batch of pilgrims would depart from Rishikesh on May 20, Bindra confirmed.
Nearly six feet of snow covers the Gurdwara complex as well as the trekking route leading to it at the moment.
Among the tasks that the team will perform is widening the downhill trekking route from Hemkund Sahib to Atalkoti Glacier Point, with the objective of making the pilgrimage route safer and more convenient for devotees.
The Indian Army has rendered this dedicated service under extremely challenging Himalayan conditions for several decades, ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the pilgrimage. The Trust also praised its volunteers for working shoulder to shoulder with Army personnel in this sacred mission.
“Their courage, discipline and commitment in harsh weather and difficult terrain are deeply appreciated by the Sikh community and devotees,” Bindra said.
Pilgrims have been asked by the Trust to strictly follow instructions issued by the authorities and remain updated on the latest travel advisories.