Belagavi: In a major move aimed at ensuring animal welfare and public safety, deputy commissioner Mohammad Roshan has prohibited the use of animal-drawn carts for transporting pilgrims to and from the annual Chinchali Mayakka Devi Jathra in Raibag taluk.The order, issued under Section 31 of the Karnataka Police Act, mandates the use of animal-free modes of transport during the fair. It follows representations from animal welfare organisation PETA India, which had raised concerns over the suffering of animals used for long-distance transportation of devotees.The Chinchali Mayakka Devi Jathra, one of the largest religious gatherings in the region, attracts thousands of devotees from Karnataka and Maharashtra every year. Despite the availability of buses and other transport facilities, many pilgrims traditionally travel in carts drawn by bullocks, horses and ponies. Animal welfare groups have long argued that such journeys subject animals to exhaustion, injuries and unnecessary suffering.Under the new order, transporting passengers in animal-drawn carts, including those pulled by cattle and equines, has been completely banned. The movement of bullocks, horses, ponies, donkeys, mules and other animals to or from the fair for transport purposes has also been prohibited. In addition, races, speed trials and competitions involving these animals, as well as the practice of yoking animals of different species to the same cart, have been banned.The administration clarified that the restrictions will remain in force during every edition of the fair and violations will invite action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Karnataka Police Act.To facilitate compliance, local authorities and voluntary organisations will ensure adequate bus services for devotees. PETA India has also been directed to conduct awareness programmes for officials of the police, transport, revenue and animal husbandry departments before the fair.Animal welfare advocates welcomed the decision, saying it would reduce animal suffering and improve road safety. The order is expected to set a precedent for promoting humane and safer transport practices at large religious gatherings.