Review Meeting and Key Decisions; Makaravilakku Mahotsavam
Meeting held to Discuss Government Coordination:
A review meeting was convened at Sabarimala by Additional District Magistrate, Arun S. Nair, with all relevant government departments
Preparations for Makaravilakku Festival at Sabarimala: A
Comprehensive Overview
With only a few days left for the Makaravilakku festival,
preparations at the Sabarimala shrine are in full swing to ensure a smooth and
safe celebration for devotees. The festival, one of the most significant in
Kerala, is scheduled for January 14.
Key Preparations and Inspections:
Inspection of Key Viewing Points:
- Pathanamthitta District Collector, S. Premkrishnan, conducted an inspection of crucial Makaravilakku viewing points on Wednesday.
- Locations inspected include Laha Sathram, Panjipara, Ilavungal, Ayyanmala, Nellimala, Attamoth West, Attamoth East, and Pampa Hilltop.
Provision of Basic Amenities:
- Efforts are being made to ensure essential services, including drinking water, toilets, and proper street lighting, in coordination with local bodies.
- The Kerala Water Authority will be responsible for providing drinking water at Pampa Hilltop.
Medical and Security
Arrangements:
- Medical teams, complete with ambulances, will be stationed at key vantage points to handle any emergencies.
- Police and forest department officials will be deployed to ensure security and manage the crowds effectively.
Spot Booking Restrictions:
- Spot bookings at Sabarimala are limited to 5,000 pilgrims per day from January 8 to January 15.
- January 14 (Makaravilakku Day): spot- bookings capped at 1,000.
- The restriction follows a directive from the Kerala High Court to prevent overcrowding and ensure efficient crowd management.
Estimated Number of Devotees:
- So far, around 40.90 lakh devotees have visited the Sabarimala shrine this season, with daily visits averaging more than 90,000.
- On peak days, the number of visitors has exceeded one lakh.
