Rudraprayag, May 15 -- 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 scre...