Covid 19 Scare in Char Dham Yatra! AIIMS Doctor Reveals Preparedness, Says 'The State Has Kept Us On...,' Here's How to Stay Safe

Amid the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, fresh concerns have surfaced as AIIMS Rishikesh Director Dr. Meenu Singh confirmed the detection of three COVID-19 cases in the institute. While one patient has already been discharged, the other two remain under observation. Among them is a resident doctor, who is currently in isolation, and a pilgrim from Gujarat who had arrived for the Badrinath Yatra. Her tests are currently underway.

Covid-19 Scare in Char Dham Yatra! AIIMS Doctor Reveals Preparedness

#WATCH | Uttarakhand | Rishikesh AIIMS Director Meenu Singh says, "Three COVID patients have been reported in the AIIMS... One has been discharged... Another patient is one of our residents. She has been kept in isolation. Another patient is from Gujarat who came here for the… pic.twitter.com/0aj97WtCIM

— ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2025

Speaking to the media, Dr. Singh reassured the public, stating, “This variant is not very harmful. However, those with comorbidities should remain cautious and seek medical attention if needed.” She further added that the state government has kept AIIMS on alert and that COVID-appropriate behaviour has already been implemented at the institute to prevent further spread.

Preventive Measures 

With thousands of devotees arriving daily for the Char Dham pilgrimage, health officials are urging strict adherence to preventive measures. These include wearing masks in crowded areas, frequent hand sanitization, and maintaining social distancing, especially for the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.

Officials have also indicated that isolation and testing facilities are being ramped up in and around pilgrimage routes to ensure early detection and response. The Health Department is closely monitoring the situation and has advised yatris to avoid travel in case of symptoms such as fever, cough, or breathlessness.

The resurgence, though limited, comes as a timely reminder to not let our guard down. “Prevention is better than panic,” Dr. Singh noted, urging both locals and visitors to stay vigilant and responsible.

As the pilgrimage continues, the state remains on standby, ready to implement further measures if necessary to protect public health.