Sabarimala to Adopt Tirupati Model to Manage Pilgrim Rush; CM Reviews Preparations
German-style shelter for 6,000 pilgrims at Nilakkal; 461 KSRTC buses planned; urgent action ordered to address sanitation issues at Pampa
PAMPA: The Kerala government plans to introduce a system modelled on the Tirupati pilgrimage management model to regulate crowds and improve facilities for devotees visiting Sabarimala during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season.
The decision was announced at a high-level review meeting chaired by the Chief Minister at the Sreerama Saketham Auditorium in Pampa on Saturday. The meeting reviewed preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage season, with a focus on crowd management, infrastructure, transportation, sanitation and pilgrim safety.
The Chief Minister visited Nilakkal in the morning and inspected the guest house, KSRTC bus station and vehicle parking facilities before proceeding to Pampa for the review meeting. The government aims to coordinate the efforts of various departments to minimise difficulties faced by pilgrims.
During the inspection, sanitation deficiencies in toilets and other basic facilities at Pampa were brought to the Chief Minister’s attention. He directed officials to take immediate corrective measures and ensure that pilgrims have access to clean and hygienic facilities.
Special arrangements to manage crowds
A German-style shelter capable of accommodating 6,000 people at a time will be constructed at Nilakkal as part of efforts to manage the anticipated rush. Measures will also be taken to prevent pilgrims from discarding clothes in the Pampa River and to ensure the timely removal of waste.
Departments concerned have been directed to ensure adequate sanitation, drinking water, lighting and healthcare facilities along the pilgrimage route.
461 KSRTC buses for pilgrims
The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will operate 461 buses to facilitate pilgrim transportation. The Public Works Department has been instructed to expedite the construction of the Chalakayam road project, estimated to cost ₹15 crore.
Road safety inspections will be strengthened, while the police and Fire and Rescue Services will deploy personnel to improve security and respond to emergencies.
As part of the healthcare arrangements, 22 medical emergency units will be established to provide immediate assistance to pilgrims. Security measures in crowded areas will also be reinforced to ensure that help is available when required.
The Travancore Devaswom Board assured the meeting that there would be no shortage of Appam and Aravana, the principal offerings distributed to devotees during the pilgrimage season.
Ministers, elected representatives attend meeting
Ministers C.P. John, Shibu Baby John and Mons, along with other public representatives and senior officials, attended the review meeting. Representatives from various departments also participated in discussions on the preparations and coordination required for the pilgrimage season.
Following the meeting, the Chief Minister and his team proceeded to Sannidhanam to assess the arrangements there.
The Mandala pilgrimage season is scheduled to begin on November 16. The government aims to complete the necessary preparations through coordinated action by the departments concerned, with particular emphasis on transportation, security, healthcare, sanitation and ensuring a smoother darshan experience for devotees.
