Uttarkashi: This year, the district administration has decided to prepare a Special Operations Procedure (SOP) for the operation of horses and mules on the Yamunotri Dham walking route during the Char Dham Yatra 2026.
The move aims to protect the health and safety of animals while ensuring smooth travel for pilgrims.
Mules will not be allowed to operate after 6 pm
Under the SOP, horses and mules will not be allowed to operate after 6 pm on the Yamunotri route. Strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of animal cruelty. District Magistrate Prashant Arya has directed the District Panchayat and the Animal Husbandry Department to jointly prepare the SOP. Both departments will soon inspect the Yamunotri walking track to finalize arrangements.
Large number of animals used
Every year, around 3,500 to 4,000 horses and mules are operated on the Yamunotri route to transport pilgrims. Last year, 3,600 were registered. However, reports suggest that operators often force animals to carry excessive loads to earn profits, leading to exhaustion and even deaths. This year, authorities have warned that anyone found overburdening animals will face prosecution under the Animal Cruelty Act.
Safety and health measures
The SOP will include regular arrangements for hot water and fodder along the route. A designated place will also be marked for burying dead animals to maintain hygiene. According to regulations, only 600 horses and mules will be allowed on the track at a time. Once 100 animals return to Janki Chatti, others will be permitted to proceed towards the shrine.
Chief Veterinary Officer H.S. Bisht confirmed that the District Magistrate has instructed the creation of the SOP with strict monitoring. Veterinary teams will also be deployed to check the health of animals during the yatra.
Preventing cruelty and ensuring discipline
The administration has emphasized that the new SOP is not only about discipline but also about compassion. By limiting working hours, controlling the number of animals on the track, and ensuring food and water supply, the authorities hope to reduce cruelty and improve conditions for the animals.
Pilgrims too are being urged to cooperate with the new rules, as the welfare of animals is directly linked to the safety and success of the yatra. With these measures, the Yamunotri route is expected to become safer for both devotees and the animals that serve them.