Char Dham Yatra: 39 pilgrims die; 'mountain sickness' among the reasons behind death

New Delhi : At least 39 pilgrims have lost their lives during the Char Dham Yatra this year; the cause of death has been high blood pressure, cardiac-related issues and mountain sickness. The administration has advised medically unfit people to not travel.

The mountain sickness soars when people do not acclimatize their bodies on high altitudes and start their journey on Himalayas.

The Uttarakhand government has capped the number of pilgrims taking Char Dham Yatra to control the rush, despite this the hotels and dharamshalas are running on full capacities.

Traveling from low altitudes to high altitudes? This is what you should keep in mind

# Always choose a slower way to go at high altitude from low altitude areas.

# It is preferred to stay for at least 24 hours on high altitude to allow your body to adjust to the changes.

# Drinking a little more water than required helps body in avoiding mountain sickness.

# Taking a medical test before going for a hike is advised.

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