By Our Staff Reporter
Rudraprayag, 13 May: The ban on horses and mules transporting pilgrims in the Kedarnath Yatra is being gradually lifted. The temporary restriction was imposed due to Equine Influenza Virus Disease (EIVD), but with vigilant monitoring by the Animal Husbandry Department and the District Administration, the situation has now improved.
Pilgrims undertaking the Kedarnath Yatra have begun to get relief as authorities have begun allowing horses and mules back onto the route in a phased manner. The Animal Husbandry Department had earlier sent some animals on a trial basis, and no signs of infection were detected. Following this successful trial, the administration started approving the movement of horses and mules found negative in health screenings.
With equine influenza now under control, 3,410 horses and mules are back in operation. Last Sunday, the Animal Husbandry Department sent 1,670 animals for the pilgrimage, while on Monday, 3,410 horses and mules were deployed. Today, also, more than 3,500 horses and mules were allowed to proceed to Kedarnath. Chief Veterinary Officer Ashish Rawat confirmed that each animal is being thoroughly examined, and only those certified as healthy and completely fit are being allowed on the Yatra route.
To ensure strict health checks, animal check-up centres have been set up at three locations on the Kedarnath Yatra route. The departmental teams are actively monitoring the route to prevent any unpleasant or emergency situations. The district administration and officials managing the Kedarnath Yatra, in coordination with the Animal Husbandry Department, are also closely observing the situation.
