Dehradun, June 20 -- The ongoing Kedarnath Yatra has recorded a business of approximately Rs.300 crore within 48 days since the temple portals opened on May 2, a statement issued by the government said, adding the surge in footfall has brought economic benefits across multiple sectors, including transportation, hospitality, and local businesses. According to officials, more than 1,140,000 pilgrims have visited the shrine till June 18, logging an average daily footfall of around 24,000 devotees. Horse and mule services remain vital for pilgrims navigating the difficult 20km uphill trek to Kedarnath. Chief veterinary officer Rudraprayag Dr Ashish Rawat said, "As of June 18, over 227,000 devotees used horse-mule services, generating revenue of Rs.66.73 crore. Around 8,000 horses and mules are registered this year, though services were briefly affected by an outbreak of equine influenza." Helicopter services continue to be a preferred option for elderly or physically challenged pilgrims. Rudraprayag district tourism officer and heli-service nodal officer Rahul Choubey said that 49,247 devotees have so far used heli services, contributing nearly Rs.60 crore in revenue. Eight heli companies are operating from nine helipads this season. Choubey urged devotees to book only through the official IRCTC website. Services such as Dandi and Kandi (palanquins/ or chair-like structures on which porters carry pilgrims on their backs) remain important for many pilgrims unable to trek or ride animals. Additional chief officer, district panchayat Rudraprayag, Sanjay Kumar, said "Over 7,000 Dandi-Kandi operators are registered this year. The service has generated revenue of Rs.2.71 crore, which also includes Rs.4.17 lakh in penalties collected from violators of cleanliness and safety norms." Assistant transport officer, Rudraprayag, Kulwant Singh Chauhan said that 225 vehicles are currently providing shuttle services between Sonprayag and Gaurikund. "With every pilgrim paying Rs.50 each for a one-way trip, the operation has generated approximately Rs.11.4 crore revenue. An additional 25 vehicles have been reserved for women and elderly passengers as part of a pilot initiative," he said....