Accident Insurance for Sabarimala Pilgrims Expanded Statewide
Thiruvananthapuram: The Travancore Devaswom Board has expanded accident insurance for Sabarimala pilgrims across Kerala. Previously limited to four districts—Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Idukki, and Kottayam—the scheme now covers the entire state.
If a pilgrim dies in an accident anywhere in Kerala, their dependents will receive ₹5 lakh as compensation. The Devaswom Board will bear the insurance premium, ensuring financial security for affected families. The coverage also extends to Devaswom Board employees during the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage, monthly pujas, and temple festivals.
Pilgrims who pass away due to medical conditions like heart attacks will now receive financial assistance. The Devaswom Board has introduced a ₹3 lakh compensation scheme for their dependents.
To fund this, ₹5 will be collected from pilgrims opting for virtual queue or spot booking for Ayyappa darshan. Additional donations from devotees will help build a special fund, potentially increasing the compensation to ₹5 lakh.
Last season, 48 pilgrims lost their lives at Sabarimala due to heart attacks or respiratory failure. This initiative aims to offer vital financial support to affected families, ensuring safer and more secure pilgrimages.