Following reported incidents of abuse towards horses and donkeys used for transporting visitors at the Kedarnath shrine, Uttarakhand authorities have stepped in. There have been reports of these animals being overworked and mistreated. The Department of Animal Husbandry has now released guidelines to ensure the welfare of these animals. As per the new rules: Horses and donkeys should not be overburdened. They should only be used for transportation during daytime and not at night. Each animal is allowed to make only one trip per day. There will be a limit on the weight they can carry. Furthermore, to ensure the health of these animals, four new veterinary hospitals will be established in the area. Before being allowed to transport visitors, each animal's health will be checked by the authorities. The measures aim to prevent cruelty and ensure the wellbeing of the animals serving at the revered shrine.
