Sabarimala Temple is one of the most revered temples in India. Nestled in the Sabarimala Hill in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, this temple, unlike other temples is not open throughout the year. Dedicated to the Hindu Brahmachari deity, Ayyappan, the temple welcomes 10 to 15 million deities every year. To make travel convenient and comfortable for the deities, Kerala will soon build a ₹3411-crore Sabarimala International Airport in Kottayam.
Sabarimala International Airport To Boost Spiritual Tourism
According to a report by News18, the Kerala government’s proposal to build a ₹3411-crore Sabarimala International Airport has been approved. The report further adds that the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has proposed a site that is the best one to set up the airport. Moreover, once the Sabarimala International Airport comes up. It will provide employment to 600 people right in the operation phase as well.
Apart from serving the pilgrims of the famous Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala. This airport will also facilitate tourism to nearby districts in Kerala like Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta. Moreover, this greenfield airport has also received a shot in the arm from the Union Environment Ministry panel. This is because the airport falls outside the 10 km radius of the Periyar Tiger Reserve’s Ecologically Sensitive Zone.
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It Increases Connectivity To Pamba
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wholeheartedly welcomed the Civil Aviation Ministry’s move for a greenfield airport at Kottayam. PM Modi hailed it to be great news for spiritual tourism. To build this airport, the government needs 1,039.8 hectares of land from Manimala and Erumeli South villages. The construction of the Sabarimala International Airport ensures easy connectivity to Pamba but absolutely no disturbance to the revered Sabarimala temple.
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In a report by PTI, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan even confirmed the commencement of the groundwork of the Sabarimala International Airport. This happened after all due permissions were taken.
Folks, do you think the opening of the Sabarimala International Airport will make matters more convenient for pilgrims? Also, does it encourage you to explore the regions nearby too?
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons