Uttarakhand’s diktat for eateries on Kanwar Yatra route: Display licence, registration or face closure

By | July 2, 2025
Kanwar Yatra pilgrims walking – Uttarakhand Kanwar Yatra food licence rule enforcement

As the holy month of Shravan nears, Uttarakhand is preparing for the annual Kanwar Yatra. This pilgrimage is one of North India’s largest religious gatherings. The state expects over seven crore pilgrims this year. In response, the government has issued strict food safety rules.

Eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route must now display valid food licenses and registration certificates. Any outlet that fails to comply will face immediate closure.

What Is the Kanwar Yatra?

The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees, known as Kanwariyas, collect holy water from the Ganga River. They often visit Haridwar, Gaumukh, or Gangotri. After collecting the water, they walk back to their hometowns and offer it to Shiva temples.

This year, the yatra begins on July 11, 2025. As huge crowds are expected, food safety has become a top concern for the state.

The Government’s New Order

Uttarakhand’s Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a clear directive. Every food outlet along the yatra route must clearly display their FSSAI license or registration certificate. This includes roadside stalls, dhabas, restaurants, and carts.

Each eatery must also install a Food Safety Display Board. This board must include the name of the person responsible for food quality, a contact number, and a list of food items sold.

The goal is to help pilgrims easily identify safe and authorized food vendors.

Regular Checks and Tough Penalties

Food safety officers will conduct routine checks along the yatra route. They will collect food samples such as milk, sweets, oil, water, and spices. If an outlet fails to meet safety standards, it can be shut down on the spot.

The government can also impose fines of up to ₹2 lakh under Section 55 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Repeat violations may lead to legal action.

These rules apply to all eateries, whether permanent or temporary.

Public Helpline for Complaints

To involve the public, the state has launched a toll-free helpline: 1800 180 4246. Pilgrims can report poor food hygiene, expired items, or unlicensed vendors.

Officials have also urged the public to check for visible certification before buying or consuming food.

Mixed Reactions from Vendors and Pilgrims

Local food vendors have shared concerns. Many say they support food safety, but worry about getting the right paperwork in time.

“We’ve served Kanwariyas for years without trouble,” said Rajesh Kumar, a dhaba owner in Haridwar. “But now, they’re asking for licenses quickly. Small vendors like us need help to follow the rules.”

In contrast, most pilgrims have welcomed the decision. “It’s good to know we won’t fall sick during the yatra,” said Sushma Devi, a devotee from Meerut.

Why Food Safety Matters This Year

The Kanwar Yatra isn’t just a spiritual event. It involves massive logistics across health, transport, and security. Pilgrims often eat at roadside stalls out of necessity. If the food is unsafe, it could trigger outbreaks of illness among large groups.

In past years, officials have reported food-related infections during the yatra. This year’s rules aim to stop that.

Uttarakhand also wants to protect its image as a safe and welcoming pilgrimage state. Any lapse could cause a public health crisis and damage public trust.

Part of a Broader National Shift

Uttarakhand’s move reflects a broader trend in India. Other religious events, like the Kumbh Mela and Amarnath Yatra, have adopted similar food safety measures.

The FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) has also launched public campaigns like “Eat Right” to raise awareness.

By enforcing strict rules during pilgrimages, states aim to promote clean, safe, and hygienic food practices.

Conclusion

Uttarakhand’s food safety order may seem strict. But it is a necessary step to protect the health of millions of Kanwar Yatra pilgrims. The government is enforcing rules, conducting inspections, and empowering citizens to report violations.

This year, the yatra is not only about devotion but also about safety and hygiene. With cooperation from vendors, officials, and devotees, the state hopes to ensure a smooth and healthy pilgrimage season.