Wed Oct 16 15:24:35 UTC 2024: ## Sabarimala Shrine Limits Virtual Queue Bookings to 70,000 Pilgrims
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has announced a limit of 70,000 daily virtual queue bookings for pilgrims visiting the Sabarimala shrine. This decision comes after the popular hill shrine reopened on Wednesday evening for the ‘Thulam’ month pooja, ahead of the busy mandala season.
The government had initially planned to open up 80,000 slots in the virtual queue system, with the remaining slots reserved for spot bookings. However, the TDB has currently only allocated 70,000 slots through the virtual queue. It remains unclear whether the remaining 10,000 slots will be allotted for spot bookings. The TDB has yet to issue any clarification on this matter.
This decision to limit the virtual queue to 70,000 slots has been met with opposition from within the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, which had previously advocated for the continuation of spot booking options. Despite this opposition, the government has ultimately decided to revert to the same 70,000 virtual queue slot system used during the last season.
The move to restrict virtual queue bookings raises concerns among pilgrims hoping to visit the shrine during the busy season. While the TDB has not yet clarified its position on spot bookings, it is likely to create further uncertainty and frustration among devotees.
First Piper 