Maha Shivaratree: Mauritius Telecom Supports Pilgrims
Mahatma Shivaratree: Mauritius Telecom will once again accompany the pilgrims heading to Ganga Talao for the Maha Shivaratree pilgrimage this year. The national operator is implementing various initiatives to ensure that the pilgrimage takes place peacefully and under the best conditions.
Staying true to one of its core values, 'We care', Mauritius Telecom reaffirms its commitment to looking after Mauritians, staying close to communities, and actively contributing to significant moments in national life. Beyond technology, the company places people at the center, ensuring the comfort, safety, and well-being of pilgrims on the way to the sacred lake.
"As the national telecommunications company, Mauritius Telecom is committed to ensuring that the pilgrimage for the Maha Shivaratree festival occurs under optimal conditions. Thanks to our various initiatives—mobile and internet connectivity, traffic and weather monitoring with our Traffic Watch mobile app, and the distribution of t-shirts—and our teams mobilized 24/7 on the ground, we will ensure that every pilgrim can experience this journey peacefully and well-supported," said Mauritius Telecom's CEO, Veemal Gungadin.
Traffic Watch: The Pilgrims' Travel Companion
As in previous years, Mauritius Telecom will utilize its technology to assist devotees, particularly by facilitating their journey to the sacred lake through its Traffic Watch mobile app, which will help them better plan their route. This year, the app has been equipped with a redesigned interface for a simpler and smoother experience.
From February 7 to 15, pilgrims will be able to consult live images of the traffic around Grand Bassin through the mobile app. It will cover 12 locations equipped with 15 cameras, allowing users to visualize traffic flow on a map with information provided by the Mauritius Police Force. High-resolution cameras will be strategically placed at key points including the Grand Bassin parking area, Glen Park, La Marie, Forest Side, Plaine Sophie, Mare aux Vacoas, Pétrin, and Avalon. This initiative is a collaboration with the police.
Additionally, a drone will provide a real-time aerial view of Grand Bassin, offering a comprehensive perspective on the influx and movement of pilgrims.
Traffic Watch users will also be able to access real-time weather information for Grand Bassin via the app. With these features, pilgrims will have all the necessary information to organize their journey and travel with peace of mind.
Enhanced Connectivity at Ganga Talao
Moreover, the telecommunications company will deploy seven wifi zones so that those heading to Grand Bassin can connect to the internet for free and will also set up temporary mobile sites at Pétrin and Plaine Sophie to ensure optimal connectivity.
MT will also provide technological support to essential services such as the police, the CEB, and the Mauritius Red Cross Society to ensure the smooth running of the pilgrimage.
MT Supports Pilgrims with a Symbolic Gesture
For many decades, Mauritius Telecom has organized a t-shirt distribution for the pilgrimage during this grand Hindu festival, a gesture always appreciated by pilgrims. The year 2026 is no exception.
On Friday, January 30, the company welcomed hundreds of representatives from associations at the Telecom Tower to present them with the specially made t-shirts for the pilgrimage. These will be distributed to devotees before their departure for the sacred lake.