Prayagraj Maha Kumbh 2025: PhonePe And ICICI Lombard Offer Insurance For Pilgrims

Ahead of the Maha Kumbh Mela in Pragyaraj in Uttar Pradesh, PhonePe has tied up with ICICI Lombard to provide insurance coverage for pilgrims. The Mela runs from January 13 to February 16, 2025. The plan will be available in two variants of Rs. 59 per traveller for those taking the train or bus and Rs. 99 for those taking a domestic flight.

Ahead of the mega function in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, PhonePe in partnership with ICICI Lombard on Thursday announced the launch of insurance coverage, designed for travellers attending the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela from January 13 to February 26, 2025.

The insurance will provide coverage to devotees for various risks including hospitalisation, doctor consultation, outpatient treatment, trip cancellation, loss of baggage, missed connecting flight cover, and also repatriation of remains among others.

In a press statement, PhonePe said, "Users can avail of this plan on the PhonePe platform until February 25, 2025, and have access to complete coverage for the entire duration of their journey and stay at the Maha Kumbh Mela, ensuring a safe and secure pilgrimage for millions of devotees.”

In fact, pilgrims would stay well to be insured because the large crowds may lead to the spread of infectious diseases. Bathing in the river of the Ganges can increase the likelihood of waterborne diseases like cholera, hepatitis B, and diarrhea. Cold winter temperatures can lead to cases of hypothermia if not prepared. Also, poor hygiene conditions can also lead to skin infections. Common colds and pneumonia are also common. Diseases related to the consumption of unhygienic food and sanitation issues can also be a cause of concern because it can lead to diseases like gastroenteritis. There is also the risk of stampedes in crowded areas.

This year, the emergence of Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India has sparked fear among people. Already more than 10 cases of the HMPV virus have been detected in India. Though experts are saying that this virus is not deadly and leads to minor infections, the virus has already brought back memories of the Covid 19 pandemic.