Kedarnath yatra generates ₹200 cr in month of May

Despite frequent road blockades and a series of accidents, including chopper crashes, the Kedarnath Yatra has emerged as a powerful economic driver in Uttarakhand this year.

- Biswajeet Banerjee

In just one month since its commencement in early May, the pilgrimage has generated an estimated ₹200 crore, breathing new life into the local economy, especially in the Rudraprayag district.

Officials attribute the brisk economic activity to a wide range of revenue-generating services linked to the pilgrimage. Horse and mule operators, who ferry pilgrims across steep and treacherous terrain, have earned approximately ₹40.5 crore. Over 1.39 lakh devotees have used these services on the route between Gaurikund and the Kedarnath shrine.

Helicopter services have also witnessed high demand. Around 33,000 pilgrims have opted for aerial transport, availing chopper rides operated by eight companies across nine helipads. These operations have generated a business of nearly ₹35 crore.