Mussoorie, May 10 -- The Rudraprayag district administration has partially lifted restrictions on mule and horse operations along the Kedarnath Dham Yatra route, which were imposed in April following an outbreak of equine influenza. Under a newly introduced system, a trial run commenced on Friday to manage the movement of equines used to transport pilgrims and goods. Dr Neeraj Singhal, director of the animal husbandry department, said, "Following the partial lifting of restrictions, a trial run was launched. The first group of six healthy mules, carrying goods, successfully reached Rudra Point, Kedarnath, at 12:54pm. After a thorough inspection, the mule owners were instructed to rest the animals before beginning the return journey." "All animal health and welfare protocols were strictly followed, ensuring a safe and successful operation," he added. Dr. Singhal emphasised that all animal handlers and owners involved in the pilgrimage must ensure their animals meet the prescribed standards and undergo mandatory medical examinations at designated checkpoints. "To ensure smooth implementation, personnel from the multi-tasking force (MTF) and the police department will support veterinary teams stationed along the route," he said. Dr Ashish Rawat, chief veterinary officer of Rudraprayag, outlined the guidelines for the new protocol. "Special teams of veterinary doctors have been deployed at three key locations-Bhimballi, Lincholi, and Rudra Point-to conduct comprehensive health checks on all horses and mules," he said, adding, "Only animals deemed completely healthy and fit for the journey will be allowed to proceed." Animal Husbandry Minister Saurabh Bahuguna, during a visit to Sonprayag on Thursday, directed officials to resume the transport of supplies to Kedarnath using only healthy animals from Gaurikund on a trial basis, contingent on thorough veterinary examination and regular health monitoring to ensure animal welfare.HTC...