Rishikesh, July 25 -- With the Kanwar Yatra in Uttarakhand set to begin amid the ongoing monsoon season, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Rishikesh Executive Director Doctor Meenu Singh on Saturday urged pilgrims to stay hydrated, maintain hygiene and consume clean food to prevent monsoon-related illnesses during the journey.

Speaking to ANI about the health challenges associated with the monsoon season, Dr Singh said rain often leads to road congestion and travel difficulties, while also increasing the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses such as indigestion, diarrhoea and gastroenteritis.

"Due to rain, there are a lot of problems. There is congestion on the roads. Travel is affected a lot. Along with this, some diseases c...