How Are Authorities Controlling Crowds Amid the Surge at Sabarimala?
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Synopsis
As the annual pilgrimage at Sabarimala draws unprecedented crowds, authorities have introduced stringent crowd control measures to ensure the safety and orderly movement of devotees. With limited daily bookings and enhanced monitoring, the pilgrimage experience aims to be both smooth and secure.
Key Takeaways
- Daily spot bookings capped at 20,000.
- Regulated entry based on foot traffic.
- Accommodations arranged for delayed pilgrims.
- Free refreshments offered to tired devotees.
- Support from the NDRF to manage crowd safety.
Sabarimala, Nov 19 (NationPress) As the annual pilgrimage season stretches over two months, an unprecedented influx of devotees has prompted the implementation of enhanced crowd control measures at the Sabarimala temple starting Saturday.
The temple commenced its pilgrimage season on Monday, and unlike previous years, the influx of visitors has been significantly higher, catching officials off guard and resulting in disarray.
Beginning Wednesday, the spot booking limit will be reduced to 20,000 per day to mitigate congestion and facilitate a more organized darshan experience at the hill shrine.
Officials have assured that once pilgrims reach Pamba, arrangements will be in place to assist with darshan and their return within the specified timeframe.
If the daily visitor count surpasses the limit, provisions will be made for darshan the following day.
The police, alongside the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), have enhanced monitoring at critical entry points to prevent overcrowding.
Access from Nilakkal to Pamba will now be managed according to hourly foot traffic.
To support devotees whose darshan slots are delayed or rescheduled, accommodation and resting areas have been organized at Nilakkal.
Additionally, extra personnel have been deployed at queue complexes along Marakkoottam, Saramkuthi, and Sannidhanam routes to oversee long queues and maintain orderly movement.
Officials have also pledged the availability of drinking water at all queue complexes.
Moreover, light refreshments and traditional dry ginger coffee (chukku kaapi) will be offered free of charge to weary pilgrims.
To enhance crowd management and emergency response, the first contingent of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) from Thrissur has already arrived in the temple town, with another team from Chennai expected by Saturday evening.
These teams will support local authorities in managing the increasing number of pilgrims and addressing any potential risks.
As hundreds of thousands of devotees are anticipated in the coming days, officials urge pilgrims to strictly follow their designated time slots and cooperate with security personnel to ensure a safe and orderly pilgrimage season.
Point of View
It is crucial to observe how the Sabarimala authorities are adapting to the challenges posed by this surge in pilgrimage. Their proactive measures reflect a commitment to both tradition and public safety, ensuring that the spiritual journey remains accessible while prioritizing the well-being of all participants.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new crowd control measures at Sabarimala?
Authorities have limited daily spot bookings to 20,000, regulated entry based on foot traffic, and enhanced monitoring to manage crowd sizes.
How will pilgrims be assisted if they miss their darshan slot?
Arrangements are in place for darshan on the following day for those whose numbers exceed daily limits.
What provisions are made for pilgrims during the wait?
Free refreshments and drinking water will be available, along with accommodation for rescheduled darshan.
