Click it and Unblock the Notifications
To make the pilgrimage to Sabarimala more convenient and accessible, a new real-time online booking system has been launched. This system allows 10,000 devotees per day to secure direct access for darshan, ensuring a smoother experience for pilgrims.
Announced by Travancore Devaswom Board President P S Prasanth, the goal is to accommodate up to 80,000 pilgrims daily, with 70,000 of these pilgrims booking through a virtual queue. Important checkpoints like Satram (Vandiperiyar), Erumeli, and Pampa will feature counters for easy registration, and pilgrims are required to bring a copy of their Aadhaar card for verification.
A unique benefit now offered to devotees is a Rs 5 lakh accidental death insurance policy. This policy, available to all who book for the darshan, highlights the board's commitment to the safety of the pilgrims. To prepare for the large number of visitors, the Nilakkal parking area is expanding to accommodate an additional 2,000 vehicles.
At Pampa, five new pavements, including three permanent and two temporary walkways, are under construction. The famous Aravana prasadam stock, which currently stands at 6 lakh tins, will be increased to 45 lakh tins to meet the expected demand. To manage the substantial offerings from devotees, around 100 people will be hired daily to count coins and other donations.
In addition, a new integrated system will allow devotees to book Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) tickets while reserving their spot in the virtual queue. Minister of Transport K B Ganesh Kumar stated that this improvement is set to simplify travel to Sabarimala for groups of 40 or more people, who can book seats up to 10 days in advance. An added convenience is that buses can pick up passengers who are located within 10 kilometers of a bus station, making it easier for pilgrims to reach the temple.
Improved Transportation and Safety for Pilgrims
Among the transportation upgrades is the introduction of a Fastag system at the Nilakkal toll, speeding up entry for vehicles. Initially, 383 buses will operate on the Nilakkal-Pampa route, with this number set to rise to 550 buses. Buses will depart every half-minute, ensuring quick travel for devotees.
Additionally, all vehicle details will be recorded for efficient traffic management. On the return trip, buses filled with pilgrims from Pampa will head directly to their destinations without stopping at Nilakkal. Road safety is a top priority, with nearly 20 motor vehicle squads patrolling a 250-kilometer stretch. Reflectors are being installed in areas like Valakkuvanji and Mannarakulanji to enhance safety, while awareness videos in six languages will educate drivers about safe travel.
These extensive preparations for the upcoming Mandala season were overseen by key officials, including Ranni MLA Pramod Narayan, District Collector S Prem Krishnan, and other prominent authorities. From enhanced booking options to improved transportation and safety measures, these updates aim to provide a secure and enriching experience for all Sabarimala pilgrims, ensuring the journey is smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
