Significant Update

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has decided to strengthen food safety and hygiene standards at hotels and food stalls in Sabarimala. The Board will revise tender conditions and bring organisations such as Kudumbashree, Indian Coffee House, and KTDC into the food service sector at Sannidhanam and Pamba.

Board Makes Health Cards and Hygiene Compliance Mandatory

The revised tender guidelines will require hotel operators to maintain proper hygiene standards and ensure that all workers possess valid health cards. Authorities will shut down food outlets that fail to follow the rules.

At present, the Food Safety Department mainly conducts inspections and imposes fines after receiving complaints. During recent reviews, officials found that many workers lacked health cards, while several hotels failed to maintain cleanliness in and around their premises. Authorities also found that some establishments occupied more space than the Board permitted.

Inspection Reveals Multiple Violations

Devaswom Board President K. Jayakumar identified several violations during a recent inspection at Sabarimala, prompting the Board to tighten regulations further. Officials also flagged poor waste management as a major concern, especially during the pilgrimage season. The Board will implement the reforms under the “Vision Sabarimala” initiative to improve sanitation and pilgrim facilities.

Board Plans E-Tendering and Tighter Monitoring

The Board will allow existing hotel operators to continue participating in the tender process, but will strictly enforce the revised guidelines. Authorities are also considering shifting the entire hotel tender process to e-tendering to improve transparency. According to the Board, some contractors traditionally avoid bidding initially by claiming that tender amounts are too high, but later secure contracts after authorities reduce rates closer to the pilgrimage season. The Board said it would stop such practices.

Pilgrim Safety and Clean Food Take Priority

Although the Devaswom Board provides free meals during the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season and monthly poojas, many pilgrims continue to rely on hotels and food stalls in the area. Officials noted that several stalls currently block walking space for devotees, creating crowding and sanitation concerns. Jayakumar said the Board would give top priority to pilgrim safety and clean food practices. The Board shortlisted Kudumbashree, Indian Coffee House, and KTDC for their reputation for reliable service and better operational standards.

Source: Mathrubhumi