Sabarimala: Rapid Action Force Deployed Along with Police for Crowd Control
To effectively manage crowd control during the Mandala–Makaravilakku festival season, a battalion of the Rapid Action Force (RAF), consisting of 140 personnel, has been deployed at Sabarimala alongside the Kerala State Police since the opening of the temple for the Mandala Mahotsavam.
The RAF unit is led by Deputy Commandant Biju Ram and includes a 30-member Quick Response Team, which remains on constant standby at the Sannidhanam. The force plays a key role in ensuring smooth crowd movement and maintaining law and order during peak pilgrimage periods.
The RAF has been assigned duty at major locations including Marakkootam, Nadappanthal, Thirumuttam, Defence Morcha, Sannidhanam, Bhasmakulam, and the Aravana distribution centre.
Deputy Commandant Biju Ram stated that although heavy crowding was witnessed on December 30 and 31 following the opening of the temple for Makaravilakku, the situation was later brought under control. He also informed that additional personnel will be deployed in view of the Makaravilakku festival scheduled for January 14.