KSRTC Deploys 900 Buses for Makaravilakku Pilgrimage
The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) successfully operated services during the Mandala–Makaravilakku pilgrimage season with proper planning and coordination. On the Pampa–Nilakkal route alone, around 180 chain services were operated daily to manage the heavy rush of pilgrims.
Speaking at a review meeting held at Pampa, Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar said that 900 buses have been deployed to operate services to Pampa in connection with the Makaravilakku festival. He added that an additional 100 buses would be arranged if required.
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| Review meeting held in Pampa under the chairmanship of Minister KB Ganesh Kumar |
To accommodate the increased number of buses, more parking facilities will be arranged at the Pampa hilltop. The minister noted that this season witnessed fewer complaints compared to previous years. He said he interacted directly with Ayyappa devotees at Pampa and learned that they were satisfied with KSRTC’s services. The minister also stated that he personally observed the smooth and efficient functioning of KSRTC operations.
The minister further said it was a relief that no road accidents related to the Sabarimala pilgrimage were reported this season. More measures will be introduced in the next season to further reduce road accidents.
The review meeting, held at Srirama Saketham Hall in Pampa, was attended by Transport Department Joint Commissioner Pramod Shankar, Special Officer Dr. Arun S. Nair, and officials from various departments.
Over 3.65 Lakh Devotees Visit Sabarimala So Far
Since the Sabarimala temple opened on December 30 for the Makaravilakku festival, a total of 3,65,496 Ayyappa devotees have visited the Sannidhanam for darshan. On January 4 alone, 72,941 pilgrims visited the temple. On December 30, the day the temple opened for Makaravilakku, 57,256 devotees had darshan.
Decline in Coconut Offerings at Koppra Kalam
Despite the increasing crowd at Sabarimala during the Makaravilakku festival, reports indicate a decline in coconut arrivals at the Koppra Kalam. Due to heavy crowding, not all devotees are able to break coconuts at the shrine's present near the holy 18 steps, which is considered the main reason for the decrease.
The rise in coconut prices has also led pilgrims from other states to bring smaller coconuts, further reducing the total quantity. Earlier, on peak days, up to 10 tonnes of coconuts were processed at Koppra Kalam. Currently, only about 4 to 5 tonnes are received on many days. A shortage of workers is also affecting operations.
