UTTARKASHI: Popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand, including Kedarkantha, Harshil, and Dayara, saw a significant increase in footfall on New Year's Eve, with over 5,000 tourists staying at key spots in Uttarkashi District.

"In Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, which is gaining fame as a 'New Year Destination', scenic places like Kedarkantha, Harshil, Dayara are bustling with tourists coming from different parts of the country these days. Even today, more than 3 thousand tourists arrived in Harshil, Dayara and Sankri area. More than 5 thousand tourists are reported to have stayed at the major tourist places of the district," said a post on the offical X account of the State government's Department of Information and Public Relations.

The government also mentioned that special security arrangements were made due to the increased number of tourists.

"Uttarakhand Police and Administration have also made special security arrangements in view of the increasing movement of tourists on New Year. Teams of SDRF, Police, Disaster Management's Rapid Action Squad have been sent to tourist-crowded Kedarkantha, Harshil, Dayara areas," the post said.

"Equipped with satellite phones, walkie-talkies, snow chains, searchlights and other necessary equipment, these teams have been asked to monitor the movement of tourists and other arrangements in snow-covered areas. Necessary machinery has also been deployed at sensitive places to keep the roads smooth," it added.

India welcomed the year 2025 with celebrations across the country, as people in various cities marked the occasion with joy and enthusiasm. New Year celebrations began in many cities with parties, cultural events, live music performances, and themed decorations.