Power Line to Be Shifted: Ropeway Project: Know more
Sabarimala Ropeway Project: Major Developments at Pamba Hilltop
As part of the Sabarimala ropeway project, the existing 66 KV power line at Pamba hilltop will be replaced to facilitate the construction of the ropeway. This project aims to improve transportation, making the movement of goods and emergency services between Pamba and Sannidhanam more efficient.
Replacement of Power Lines
Currently, an electricity tower stands at the proposed site for the ropeway station, automated warehouses, and offices in Pamba. To enable construction, the Devaswom Commissioner has requested the Electricity Board to relocate the tower to a more suitable location and provide power through underground cables. The power lines from the Moozhiyar Power House will be redirected underground to a new tower near the substation at Pamba hilltop as part of the infrastructure upgrade.
Environmental and Regulatory Approvals
The Pamba ropeway station falls under the Ranni Forest Division of the Forest Department. The ropeway will pass over the Pamba River, and the opposite bank is part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. To comply with environmental regulations, the Forest Department has conducted a site inspection and submitted reports to the Chief Wildlife Warden and the State Wildlife Board. Final approval is expected soon.
Benefits of the Ropeway Project
The ropeway will serve two key purposes
Easier Transport of Goods: It will help move essential supplies between Pamba and Sannidhanam, reducing logistical challenges during peak pilgrimage seasons
Improved Emergency Services: The ropeway will allow faster ambulance services, ensuring timely medical aid for devotees in need.
Possible Extension of Travancore Devaswom Board Members' Tenure
The government is considering extending the term of Travancore Devaswom Board members from two years to three years.
President Adv. P.S. Prashant and member Adv. A.A. Jikumar May have been extended three years, while Adv. Santosh Kumar from Chengannur is being considered as a replacement for outgoing member G. Sundaresan. Santosh Kumar, a CPM area committee member and the president of Perissery Cooperative Bank, is known to have close ties with Minister Saji Cheriyan.
Currently, the tenure of the Travancore Devaswom Board is two years, and the present members' term will end just before the next pilgrimage season. Given that Malabar Devaswom Board President M.R. Murali’s term was recently extended, a similar decision for Travancore Devaswom Board members is likely.
