Ban on Horses and Mules in Kedarnath Pilgrimage Route to Continue

The ban on taking horses and mules on the Kedarnath pilgrimage route will continue after 14 animals died of an infectious virus in two days. State animal husbandry secretary B.V.R.C Purushottam stated that the decision to extend the ban will depend on the circumstances.

A 24-hour ban was imposed on the use of horses and mules on the route after eight horses and mules died on May 4 and six the following day. The ban was extended for another 24 hours as experts investigated the cause of the animal deaths.

Initially, the deaths were attributed to 'diarrhea' and 'acute colic'. Samples collected from the horses have been sent to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Bareilly for further analysis. A team of over 22 doctors has been deployed on the yatra route to address the issue.

Even after the ban is lifted, only healthy horses and mules will be allowed on the route after testing negative for any infectious virus. Unhealthy animals will not be permitted to walk on the yatra route. Samples collected earlier showed some horses tested positive for equine influenza.

In light of the seriousness of the situation, extensive measures have been taken to ensure the safety of animals and pilgrims traveling to Kedarnath Dham.

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