Extreme Heat Warning: Using Draught Animals Between 12 PM to 3 PM Now a Punishable Offense in Rajasthan

Udaipur, April 8 In view of the ongoing extreme heat across Rajasthan, the Animal Husbandry Department has issued strict guidelines prohibiting the use of draught animals between 12 PM and 3 PM. These measures are intended to protect working animals such as horses, donkeys, mules, oxen, and buffaloes from heat stroke, dehydration, and possible death due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

Use of Working Animals During Peak Heat Now Punishable

As per directions issued by Dr. Anand Sejra, Secretary of the State Animal Welfare Board, using animals during intense heat will now be considered a punishable offense under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. According to Section 3 of the Act, any person responsible for the care of animals must take reasonable measures to ensure their welfare and prevent unnecessary suffering.

Dr. Surendra Chhangani, Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Training Institute, emphasized that no draught animal shall be used or permitted to be used between 12 noon and 3 PM in regions where the temperature exceeds 37°C, as outlined in Rule 6(3) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Draught and Pack Animals Rules, 1965.

Additionally, under Rule 12 of the Animals (Transport on Foot) Rules, 2001, transporting animals on foot is strictly prohibited when the temperature is above 30°C.

Summer Guidelines and Welfare Measures for Animals

The department has issued advisories for strict implementation of these laws and asked for widespread awareness campaigns. It has directed authorities to ensure the availability of clean water, shade, and proper nutrition for animals used in agriculture and transport during the summer months.

Dr. Chhangani added that to protect animals from dehydration and heat stress, owners must provide clean water regularly and feed them a nutritionally balanced diet.

These measures are not only a legal obligation but also a humanitarian step to ensure animal welfare during the severe heatwave affecting large parts of the state.