Kainchi Dham drowns in tourists after Hanuman Ansh release, district may act to ease pressure

Kainchi Dham, a popular pilgrimage site in the Kumaon hills, witnessed a massive influx of tourists over the long weekend, with the number of visitors exceeding 35,000 daily. The long queues and gridlock on mountain roads have put immense pressure on the district's infrastructure. In response, the Nainital administration is considering opening an alternative bypass to alleviate the congestion.

The surge in visitors is attributed to two factors: the end of the monsoon season and the release of the film Hanuman Ansh, which has introduced Neem Karoli Baba to a younger audience. The district magistrate anticipates that the traffic will subside soon, but the ongoing situation has raised concerns among both pilgrims and locals about the strain on the roads and infrastructure.