Save the Dev Bhoomi, for God sake
Joshimath is an important town in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is the entry door to the sacred temple of Shri Badrinath; and also winter abode for the deity. It hosts the northern monastery (one of the four sacred Hindu monasteries established by Sri Adi Shankracharya); and a critical cantonment for the Army establishment posted to protect the northern borders with China (Tibet). It is also the gateway to famous winter sport venue Auli and several other Himalayan trekking destinations. Over the past three decades it has evolved from a sleepy mountain village that would witness some life during the six months Char Dham pilgrimage; into a busy town bustling with activity all-round the year. Recently, Joshimath has been in the news for the wrong reasons. About 20000 inhabitants of Joshimath are living in extreme fear as their homes have developed big cracks; and could collapse anytime. Besides, some important temples and other establishments have a...