India

Mule services slump as Kedarnath’s choppers soar

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The swift chopper service to Kedarnath in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district has spelled recession time for mule and palanquin operators.
As mule operators struggle to get pilgrims, aviation companies are smiling all the way to the bank. The 2013 flood-hit Kedarnath temple has attracted over one lakh visitors since it opened on April 24 after the winter break.
This year, over 44,000 pilgrims have availed the chopper service while 23,000 hired mules. The traditional palanquin and Kandi (basket) remain in low demand – with only 115-odd tourists opting to move on Doli that is carried by four porters.
The case of Kandi that is popular among elderly, women and children is the same with just about 300 going for it. About 31,000 preferred to take the tough 20-km trek to the Hindu shrine, located 11,755 feet above sea level.
Compared to 10 aviation companies, about 1,350 mules are engaged during but operators complain they received booking of an average 17 days out of the total 55 days. On the other hand, the chopper landing ground is full with people from early morning till late in the evening.
Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) Chairman Ganesh Godiyal said: “Air service has gained popularity due to increase in paying capacity of pilgrims. This year, we earned about Rs. 5 crore through donations and by conducting pujas.”
The total earnings of the temple touched Rs. 2 crore while 10 chopper firms reaped an overall business of over Rs. 32 crore.
Pony owners are no wonder frustrated. Anup Prasad (30) said: “Post the 2013-disaster, I used to make two trips – from Gaurikund to Kedarnath – with my mules every day. But, this time, the business is low with tourists taking a liking to the helicopters. I have six animals and each mule has got work for about 12 days only.”
Air service comes for Rs. 7,200 while a round trip palanquin charge costs Rs. 6,500. One has to pay Rs. 1,800 for hiring a mule from Sonprayag to Kedarnath (one way). It is time consuming (about 5-6 hours) when compared to the seven-minute air trip.

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