Mussoorie, Oct. 12 -- Chamoli district administration has begun preparations for the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, the revered pilgrimage often called the 'Himalayan Mahakumbh', which is to be held in 2026. District magistrate Sandeep Tiwari on Friday evening conducted a comprehensive inspection of the District Tourism Officer's office, marking an important step in the preparatory phase for the centuries-old pilgrimage that takes place once every 12 years. During the review, district magistrate Sandeep Tiwari examined ongoing departmental work and issued firm instructions to the tourism officer to coordinate with all concerned departments to ensure a smooth journey for all the devotees. He directed officials to prepare detailed proposals on the current condition of the arduous 280-km route and focus on improving critical infrastructure, including parking facilities, drinking water, electricity, sanitation, and accommodation for pilgrims. "All concerned departments have been instructed to prepare a plan to improve basic amenities with the clear objective of preventing any inconvenience to devotees," Tiwari said. The current administrative push reflects the complex planning and coordination traditionally required for the Yatra, which involves months of advance work by the PWD, forest, health, and tourism departments. The preparations typically include route repair, setting up temporary rest shelters and medical camps, and managing large-scale logistics for the spiritual procession that travels from Nauti village to Homkund. The Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is a deeply symbolic pilgrimage which is held once every 12 years, though the exact interval can vary depending on astrological calculations and local traditions....