NewsExpress

In the wake of a spike in Covid cases during the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, the state government has revised the guidelines for pilgrimage. Along with pilgrims, officials on Sabarimala duty will also have to compulsorily undergo RT-PCR test from December 26 onward. The Darshan will begin from December 26, and as many as 5000 devotees will be permitted to visit the shrine.

“Owing to the Sabarimala pilgrimage season and the likelihood of cases going up after the local body election, everyone should compulsorily follow the guidelines issued by the Health Department,” Health Minister KK Shailaja told Indian Express.

The temple was shut for nearly seven months due to the coronavirus pandemic. In November, the shrine reopened for the annual two-month-long Mandala-Makaravilakku.

How to Reach the Temple

By Rail:- Pilgrims can reach Kottayam & Chengannur by rail and from there by road to to Pampa

By Air:– Pilgrims can reach Thiruvananthapuram or Kochi by air and from there by rail/road to Pampa.

By Road:– KSRTC has started bus services to Coimbatore, Palani and Thenkasi from Pampa for the convenience of Sabarimala pilgrims. Besides, the Government of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have been given the permission to operate buses to Pampa. A chain service exists between Pampa and Nilackal base camps.

Here is the all you need to know about the guidelines:

Ensure compliance with Covid protocol. Avoid chances of super spreading of Covid by maintaining social distancing among pilgrims and limiting their number.
Pilgrims should wash hands frequently, maintain social distancing, and wear face masks. Precautions should be taken during travel as well. They should carry sanitisers throughout the pilgrimage.

People who were earlier tested positive for Covid and those with symptoms such as fever, cough, breathing difficulties fatigue, and loss of smell should avoid the pilgrimage

RT-PCR test is mandatory for pilgrims arriving after ‘Mandala masa pooja’ from December 26 onwards and officials on duty.

Pilgrims should produce Covid negative certificates obtained 24 hours prior to arrival. This can be RT-PCR, RT-Lamp, or Express Nat test result obtained from a NABL-accredited lab.

All officials deployed for duty in Sabarimala should undergo RT-PCR or RT-Lamp or Express Nat test.

Pilgrims and officials on duty should wash hands or use sanitiser to clean hands every 30 minutes.

A distance of at least six feet should be maintained and masks should be properly worn.

Those who have recovered from Covid need to ensure physical fitness before embarking on the pilgrimage that involves trekking up the hill.

Crowding not allowed in Pampa and Nilakkal. Toilets should be sanitised after use and return journey downhill should not be done in groups.

Drivers, cleaners, and cooks accompanying pilgrims should also strictly follow the Health Department guidelines.

Ankit Anand

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