Sabarimala (Kerala), Nov 19 (UNI) Ahead of the annual pilgrimage to the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala, telecom operator Vi and the Kerala Police have renewed their partnership to enhance safety and connectivity for lakhs of devotees.
Vi has announced upgraded network infrastructure along the pilgrimage route and launched pre-registration for its Vi Suraksha QR-coded wristbands aimed at protecting child pilgrims.
To handle the surge in data and voice traffic, Vi has strengthened coverage across Sannidhanam, Pampa, and Nilakkal by deploying 70 MHz of spectrum in the L900, L1800, L2100, L2300, and L2500 bands.
Thirteen new sites have also been added in the Pathanamthitta district. Advanced FDD and TDD layers with Massive MIMO technology have been activated to ensure reliable connectivity during peak hours.
Network access has been enhanced at Ganapathi Kovil, Nadappanthal, administrative points, the Pampa-Sannidhanam trekking path, and the Nilakkal parking and bus stand, enabling devotees to stay connected, share information, and communicate with their families without interruption.
The Vi Suraksha initiative, introduced last year, returns with upgraded features. The programme provides QR-coded wristbands containing a guardian’s contact number, helping police quickly reunite children who get separated in the crowd.
With 10-15 percent of pilgrims being children and hundreds of missing-child reports filed each season, the initiative has become a vital safety measure. Last year, over 20,000 wristbands were distributed, helping reunite more than 150 children with their families.
This year, Vi has rolled out a simpler pre-registration process. Parents or guardians can register their children through www.visuraksha.online or by visiting any Vi Store or Mini Store across Kerala to obtain a digital ID.
During the pilgrimage, they can present this ID at Vi Suraksha kiosks at Pamba base camp to collect the QR-coded wristbands. The service is free for all pilgrims.
Pathanamthitta District Police Superintendent Anand R officially inaugurated the pre-registration facility in the presence of Vi Kerala Business Head George Mathew V. The service will be available at all 25 Vi Stores and 103 Mini Stores in Kerala, supported by three dedicated kiosks at Pamba located near the Virtual Queue counters.
SP Anand R said the initiative would “greatly assist the District Police in ensuring child safety during the Sabarimala Yatra.”
Commenting on Vi’s efforts, George Mathew V said the company remains committed to “leveraging technology to create safer, smarter communities” and to ensuring that devotees remain connected throughout their spiritual journey.
Vi boosts network on Sabarimala route, launches child-safety wristbands
