New Delhi, 08 May 2025: A major health alert has been issued on the Kedarnath Yatra route after over 1,000 horses and mules used to ferry pilgrims were placed under quarantine due to a suspected viral outbreak. The development has raised concerns over the safety of both devotees and animal handlers, especially with the peak yatra season currently underway.
According to officials from the Uttarakhand Animal Husbandry Department, several equines showed symptoms consistent with glanders, a highly contagious and potentially fatal bacterial infection that affects horses, mules, and donkeys. While laboratory confirmation is awaited, precautionary quarantine has already been enforced on the animals.
The infected animals were part of the large group transporting pilgrims and supplies from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, a steep and challenging 16-kilometer trek in the Himalayas. Animal use is widespread on this route, especially among the elderly and physically challenged pilgrims who rely on mules and horses for the uphill journey.
Symptoms and Concern
- Symptoms seen in the animals include:
- Nasal discharge
- Swelling in limbs
- Lethargy and refusal to eat
- Difficulty breathing
Veterinary teams deployed on the route have isolated the symptomatic animals and are conducting medical checks on others. Officials stated that strict biosecurity measures have been put in place to prevent a larger outbreak.
“We have quarantined over 1,000 equines as a precaution. Samples have been sent to specialized labs for confirmation. Meanwhile, movement of animals is being restricted,” said Dr. Rajesh Rawat, Chief Veterinary Officer, Rudraprayag.
Impact on Kedarnath Yatra
The Char Dham Yatra 2025 had been witnessing a record number of pilgrims, especially during the first few weeks of its opening in late April. The outbreak comes at a time when daily footfall to Kedarnath is expected to exceed 20,000 pilgrims per day.
With the movement of horses and mules restricted, many devotees now have limited options for reaching the temple, particularly those unable to complete the journey on foot. Authorities have urged people to remain patient and cooperate with the health and administrative teams.
The Uttarakhand Tourism Department has issued an advisory asking pilgrims to avoid close contact with animals, report any signs of illness in hired mules or horses, and strictly follow guidelines issued on the route.
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