Uttarkashi, May 1 -- With the Char Dham Yatra beginning tomorrow, over 4,300 horse and mule operators have been pressed into service to provide services along the Kedarnath and Yamunotri walking routes. More than 8,000 horses and mules have been registered for the pilgrimage, with provisions made for hot water and rest facilities along the route to ensure the well-being of the horses and the mules. The Char Dham Yatra plays a crucial role in supporting livelihoods for hotel-lodge operators, transport providers, and horse and mule operators.

Pilgrims travelling to Kedarnath Dham need to undertake an 18-km trek from Gaurikund, leading many to avail of horse and mule services. This year, 2,493 operators have registered more than 5,000 horse...