Uttarakhand, India - May 29, 2025 In a remarkable display of endurance and dedication, the Indian army successfully cleared a challenging glacier-covered high-altitude path, ensuring the timely opening of a revered pilgrimage route. The incident occurred on the Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage route in Uttarakhand, northern India, on May 29. Visuals from the scene show snow-covered steps along a treacherous pilgrim route, with thick layers of snow blanketing the entire path. Amid this harsh landscape, Indian Army personnel can be seen working tirelessly, digging through the snow to make the steps visible and the trail passable. As pilgrims begin their ascent, soldiers extend a helping hand—literally—offering support and guiding them across slippery, ice-laden stretches to ensure they reach their sacred destination safely. According to reports, on Thursday, the Central Command confirmed that the IBEX Sappers from the Uttar Bharat Area successfully cleared the challenging glacier-covered path situated over 15,000 feet above sea level. The Indian Army’s Central Command confirmed, “At over 15,000 feet above mean sea level, across six kilometers of glacier-bound, unforgiving terrain, the IBEX Sappers of the Uttar Bharat Area, driven by sheer grit and unwavering faith, have carved open the frozen route to Shri Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand, ensuring the timely commencement of the pilgrimage on May 25, as they do every year.” Further, appreciating the effort, the Gurudwara Management Committee “solemnly acknowledged and appreciated the Indian Army’s efforts, a moment of deep gratitude and reverence.” The operation involved navigating nearly six kilometers of harsh glacier terrain under extremely high-altitude and sub-zero conditions. The Army engineers worked tirelessly to clear the path, overcoming natural obstacles to make the sacred route accessible ahead of the annual pilgrimage, which began on May 25. The Gurudwara management committee expressed heartfelt thanks, formally recognizing the Army’s crucial role in preserving this important spiritual tradition. Their acknowledgment underscored the quiet yet vital contribution of the Indian Army in facilitating one of India’s most significant high-altitude pilgrimages year after year.