Coconuts Cleared for Takeoff: Sabarimala Pilgrims Granted Exemption

The Civil Aviation Ministry has permitted coconuts in 'Irumudi' to be carried in cabin baggage for Sabarimala pilgrims. This interim measure will last until the end of the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season, following thorough checks by security personnel.

The Civil Aviation Ministry has announced a new ruling that allows Sabarimala pilgrims to carry coconuts in their 'Irumudi' bags as cabin baggage. This decision is effective immediately and will be valid until the end of the Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season, according to the government.

The unique exemption enables pilgrims to take coconuts on board after going through a rigorous screening process. This includes X-ray scans, ETD (Explosive Trace Detection), and physical checks conducted under the vigilant supervision of the Aviation Security Group from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Officials have indicated that this regulatory adjustment will remain in place throughout the two-month pilgrimage window, which traditionally starts in mid-November and concludes in mid-January. The move has been formally communicated by Rajesh Nirwan, Director General of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), emphasizing its immediate effectivity.

(With inputs from agencies.)