Personnel from the Indian Army’s 418 Independent Field Company (9 Mountain Brigade), along with sewadars (volunteers) of the Gurdwara Sri Hemkund Sahib Management Trust, successfully reached the main complex of Sri Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara on Jattvibeday, marking a significant milestone ahead of the annual pilgrimage.After performing ardas, the team opened the gates of the Gurdwara complex.Trust president Narinder Jit Singh Bindra said this would now enable the team to stay within the premises and begin preparations, including making the langar area, accommodation facilities, washrooms and electricity supply operational.“Earlier, the team had to return to Ghangaria every evening. They will now be able to continue their work while stationed at the Hemkund Sahib complex itself,” he said.Bindra confirmed that the portals of the sanctum sanctorum would be opened on May 23, while the first batch of pilgrims would depart from Rishikesh on May 20.At present, around six feet of snow covers the gurdwara complex as well as the trekking route leading to it.The team will now undertake the task of widening the downhill trekking route from Hemkund Sahib to Atalkoti Glacier Point, with the objective of making the pilgrimage route safer and more convenient for devotees.For several decades, the Indian Army has rendered this dedicated service year after year under extremely challenging Himalayan conditions, ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the pilgrimage. The Trust also praised its volunteers for working shoulder to shoulder with Army personnel in this sacred mission.“Their courage, discipline and commitment in harsh weather and difficult terrain are deeply appreciated by the Sikh community and devotees,” Bindra said.Sri Hemkund Sahib, one of the most revered Sikh pilgrimage sites, is located at an altitude of approximately 4,632 metres (15,200 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas and is surrounded by seven snow‑clad peaks and the pristine Hemkund Lake.The Trust has appealed to pilgrims to strictly follow instructions issued by the authorities and remain updated on the latest travel advisories.