A special vehicle has been arranged to transport ‘Subramaniam’, the dog that voluntarily joined the annual foot pilgrimage from Jaffna to Kataragama, along the stretch from Okanda to Kataragama to ensure its safety.

The decision was taken by Subramaniam’s caretakers and supporters due to the risks posed by wild animals, particularly leopards, as pilgrims travel through Kumana National Park and Yala National Park.Subramaniam has now been accompanying the devotees on the pilgrimage for 43 consecutive days.

According to the Animal Welfare Coalition (AWC), the dog has fully recovered from an earlier incident in Kalmunai and remains in good health as it continues its journey with the pilgrims.