State Budget Allocates ₹30 Crore for Sabarimala Master Plan and Improve Pilgrim Facilities
The State Budget has set aside ₹30 crore for work related to the Sabarimala Master Plan, showing the government’s commitment to developing the pilgrimage centre.
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) said the money will mainly support development at Nilakkal, which is the main entry point to the Sabarimala temple. Better facilities at Nilakkal will help pilgrims stay there and reduce overcrowding at Pampa and Sannidhanam.
According to TDB President K. Jayakumar, the funds can also be used to improve facilities at Pampa and to set up a sewage treatment plant. He said a detailed plan will be prepared after discussions with the High Power Committee on the Sabarimala Master Plan.
Meanwhile, officials said the TDB has approached the High Court to appoint a new chairperson for the High Power Committee. This comes after the death of Siri Jagan, a former High Court judge who headed the committee. Officials explained that any development work at Sannidhanam, Pampa, or Nilackal needs the committee’s approval.
Last year, the State Cabinet approved a major development plan for Sabarimala by dividing the pilgrimage area into eight zones. The previous State Budget had allocated ₹1,033.62 crore for this plan.
In addition to the Master Plan, this year’s Budget has allocated ₹30 crore for the Clean Pampa project to reduce pollution in the river and its banks. Another ₹15 crore has been set aside for improving pilgrimage roads in Pathanamthitta district.