In a major welfare initiative for pilgrims, the Tiruvannamalai Temple administration has officially launched a free air-conditioned bus service to assist those performing the Girivalam. This 14km spiritual walk around the base of the holy Arunachala hill is a significant ritual for thousands of devotees, but the rising summer temperatures have made the trek increasingly difficult, especially for the elderly and those with health conditions.
The new bus service is designed to run at frequent intervals along the Girivalam path, providing a cool and comfortable alternative for those who may struggle to complete the full distance on foot in the heat. The air-conditioned vehicles are equipped with basic amenities and are staffed to ensure that senior citizens and physically challenged individuals receive priority boarding and assistance during their journey.
Temple officials stated that the introduction of this service is part of a broader effort to improve pilgrim facilities and ensure that spiritual practices can continue safely during the peak of summer. The initiative has been met with widespread praise from the local community and visiting devotees, who have often called for better heat-management solutions during the crowded festival seasons.