Thiruvananthapuram: The Sabarimala temple has seen a significant increase in pilgrim footfall this season, leading to concerns about overcrowding and the need for better management. In response, the Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, has directed authorities to make more coordinated arrangements to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage experience for everyone.
The Chief Minister reviewed the current situation at Sabarimala during a special meeting held at Thekkady. He noted that the average number of pilgrims has increased from 62,000 in the first 19 days to 88,000 in the past four days. This surge has led to long queues and congestion at the temple complex.
To address the increased demand, the Chief Minister has ordered the following measures:
- Increased darshan time: The darshan time has been extended by one hour to accommodate more pilgrims.
- Limited spot booking: Spot booking for darshan will now be limited to only essential cases. This will help to reduce congestion and ensure that pre-booked pilgrims are not disadvantaged.
- Improved parking facilities: The Devaswom Board will be responsible for improving parking arrangements to accommodate the larger number of vehicles.
- Stricter traffic control: Stricter enforcement of traffic rules will be implemented to ensure smooth flow of vehicles around the temple.
- Staged duty change for police: Police personnel will be rotated in stages to ensure continuity of service and prevent disruptions.
- Deployment of additional volunteers: Volunteers from various agencies will be recruited to assist with crowd management and other tasks.
- Improved communication: The Devaswom Board will actively communicate with pilgrims about the latest arrangements and facilities available. This will help to address any concerns and prevent the spread of misinformation.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the need to pay special attention to the needs of women and children visiting the temple. He called for dedicated facilities and arrangements to ensure their safety and comfort.
In addition to these measures, the Chief Minister expressed his condolences on the recent death of a child who had come for the pilgrimage. He assured the public that the government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all devotees visiting Sabarimala.
The increased rush at Sabarimala highlights the need for continuous improvement in the management of the pilgrimage. The Chief Minister’s directives are a positive step towards ensuring a smooth and safe experience for all devotees. It is important for the authorities to implement these measures effectively and to remain vigilant in addressing any challenges that may arise.
