Enhanced Inspections Safeguard Sabarimala Pilgrims

With the annual pilgrimage at the Lord Ayyappa temple, inspections intensify in Sabarimala to prevent exploitation. Legal Metrology, Civil Supplies, Health, and Revenue departments lead the checks, resulting in Rs 13,000 fines for violations such as unhygienic food and price tampering. Authorities enforce strict pricing regulations.

As the annual pilgrimage at the Lord Ayyappa temple begins, inspections have intensified in major commercial centers of Sabarimala and Pampa to protect pilgrims from exploitation, officials highlighted on Saturday.

Jointly orchestrated by the Legal Metrology, Civil Supplies, Health, and Revenue departments, the inspections have so far led to fines totaling Rs 13,000 for various infractions. These include selling food under unhygienic conditions, the use of unsealed weighing instruments, and the sale of products without proper labeling or at prices above the MRP.

To combat reported issues of price gouging, hoarding, and adulteration, authorities have issued directives for businesses to clearly display price lists and refrain from overcharging. Establishments operating without a food safety license or with other violations will face stringent penalties. The pilgrimage season, commencing on November 16, awaits devotees worldwide.

(With inputs from agencies.)