Matheran, a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and horse riding tourism, faces a critical lack of veterinary care for its over 450 horses. The local horse clinic is in a state of disrepair, lacking basic amenities like light and water, and there is no resident veterinarian to handle emergencies. This deficiency forces horse owners, or ghodawallas, to seek help from distant vets, often resulting in delayed treatment and tragic outcomes, as seen in the recent death of a horse named Dayavaan due to an untreated obstruction.

The absence of proper veterinary facilities and personnel is a significant concern for the community, especially since horse rides are central to Matheran’s tourism and livelihood. Local leaders and organizations have called for the appointment of a dedicated Livestock Development Officer and the renovation or relocation of the clinic closer to where horses are stabled. Matheran has also produced notable jockeys, highlighting the importance of horses to the region’s culture and economy, underscoring the urgent need for improved animal healthcare infrastructure.