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Kedarnath Drowning in Waste Crisis
27 Feb
Summary
- 21.4 metric tonnes of waste generated in 2025, a 22% increase.
- Nearly 60% of generated waste was left unprocessed.
- Carrying capacity survey recommends capping visitors at 13,111 daily.
The revered Kedarnath shrine is grappling with an escalating waste management crisis, having produced 21.4 metric tonnes of solid waste during the 2025 Yatra season. This figure represents a concerning 22% increase from the previous year. Despite the site's UNESCO recognition and investments in infrastructure, approximately 60% of the waste, totaling 12.7 metric tonnes, was left unprocessed by the season's end.
This waste buildup poses a significant threat to Kedarnath's delicate ecosystem, with plastic and food scraps potentially contaminating the Mandakini River. A recently completed carrying capacity survey recommended limiting daily visitors to 13,111, a guideline that is frequently exceeded. While fines for littering have been implemented, critics argue for more robust sustainable practices.
The pilgrimage site, situated at 3,583 meters in Uttarakhand, has seen a surge in popularity due to improved accessibility and tourism promotion. The 2025 Yatra alone injected Rs 300 crore into Uttarakhand's economy. However, this economic boom is straining the environment, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable practices to align devotion with preservation.
