Sabarimala: Crackdown on room mafias; Devaswom Board completes Makaravilakku preparations
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Travancore Devaswom Board President K Jayakumar announced that all necessary arrangements have been completed for pilgrims visiting Sabarimala during the Makaravilakku festival.
Strict measures will be implemented this year to stop the activities of the “room mafia” operating during Makaravilakku. As part of these efforts, an online room booking system will be introduced, and rooms can be reserved only by submitting valid identification documents. Jayakumar also clarified that photo identity passes will be issued for entry into the Thirumuttam to prevent the misuse and transfer of darshan passes.
The Devaswom Board President said the board has decided to accelerate development works in accordance with the Sabarimala Master Plan. Pampa will be beautified as the main entrance gateway to Sabarimala. The board is making efforts to directly take over development activities focusing on Nilakkal and Pampa, with the goal of completing the first phase within two years.
Jayakumar noted that certain development works are essential to address space constraints in the Thirumuttam, and the proposal to relocate the rooms of the Thantri and Melshanthi is under consideration. Steps will be taken to secure government funding for development projects and to raise funds from sponsors in a transparent manner. He added that Pampa development is part of the master plan and that enhancing infrastructure facilities at Sabarimala remains a top priority.
The Devaswom Board President also stated that security arrangements for the Makaravilakku pilgrimage will be further strengthened in the coming days.