- By Akansha Pandey
- Sun, 29 Mar 2026 07:38 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Middle East war has deepened the global LPG crisis and its potential impact on the state's economy. In its response, the Uttarakhand government has moved into a high-alert phase ahead of the Chardham Yatra. With the pilgrimage set to begin on April 19, the administration is focusing on alternative energy solutions to support hotel and restaurant operators and ensure a smooth journey for devotees.
Strategic Shift To Fuelwood Depots
To prevent a fuel shortage along the pilgrimage routes, the Uttarakhand Forest Development Corporation is planning to establish temporary fuelwood depots at key transit points. This initiative aims to provide an uninterrupted supply of cooking fuel to local businesses and residents if gas supplies falter due to ongoing international conflicts, particularly the crisis in West Asia.
Sourcing Alternative Timber
The Forest Department, led by Head of Forest Forces RK Mishra, is exploring several sustainable sourcing methods to stock these depots:
Pest-Infected Timber: Trees affected by the Hoplo beetle infestation, which are currently drying out, will be harvested for fuelwood.
Fire Line Maintenance: Trees cleared during the creation of forest fire lines will also be repurposed. Reportedly, 45 such lots have already been handed over to the Forest Development Corporation.
Existing Reserves: The government has confirmed that current corporation depots already hold significant stocks, with a priority on consuming mountain-region reserves locally to reduce logistics.
Proactive Governance
Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal has emphasised that the state is prioritising the needs of the millions of pilgrims expected this year. By mapping out suitable locations for these temporary depots now, the government intends to stabilise the local economy, which is heavily dependent on the Yatra against volatile global energy markets.