Dehradun, April 19 -- Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday said that this year's Char Dham Yatra will surpass all previous records, as he extended his wishes to pilgrims ahead of the pilgrimage beginning on April 19. "The state government is committed to ensuring a safe Char Dham Yatra, and preparations are being continuously reviewed at every level," he said, adding that efforts are being made to ensure that pilgrims return with fond memories of their time in Uttarakhand. Dhami said he prayed to Lord Kedarnath, Goddess Gangotri, Yamunotri and Badrinath for the safe and successful conduct of the yatra, as in previous years. He described the yatra as a festival for the state, adding that lakhs of devotees visit Uttarakhand every year. He said collective cooperation is essential to ensure that the yatra is successful and that pilgrims help spread the message of 'Devbhoomi' across the country and the world. Dhami also appealed to sanitation workers, police personnel and administrative officials engaged in the yatra to carry out their responsibilities efficiently so that no pilgrim faces inconvenience. "With mutual cooperation and blessings of God, we hope to conduct this year's yatra in a safe and well-organised manner," he said. Meanwhile, in Rishikesh, Dhami flagged off buses for the Char Dham Yatra. Dhami said the yatra connects faith and devotion, and gives people the strength to overcome difficulties. He added that the state government is firmly committed to ensuring a safe pilgrimage and that preparations are being closely monitored on a regular basis. The government's goal is to ensure safety, respect and a positive experience for every pilgrim, he said. He said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is working towards a green Char Dham Yatra and a plastic-free Kedarnath. Regular cleaning arrangements have been ensured along the routes and carrying dustbins in vehicles has been made mandatory, he added. Dhami said several works have been undertaken to make the yatra more convenient, including the recently inaugurated Delhi-Dehradun economic corridor built at a cost of Rs.12,000 crore, which has improved connectivity and reduced travel time....