Stopwatch and Register: Accurate Counting at the Eighteen Steps
At Sabarimala, the movement of pilgrims climbing the sacred Eighteen Steps (Pathinettam Padi) is closely monitored with precision. A stopwatch activated on a mobile phone and a large register are used to accurately record the number of devotees climbing the steps. For this task alone, four police officers are specially deployed at the top of the Eighteen Steps.
The count is handed over every hour to senior officers in charge of the Eighteen Steps. Daily reports are then prepared and submitted to the Intelligence Department, the Devaswom Board, and the government.
Among the most physically demanding duties at the Sannidhanam is that of police officers who assist pilgrims in climbing the Eighteen Steps. Due to the intense physical strain, each officer is assigned only 15 minutes of duty at the steps, followed by 45 minutes of rest. During rest periods, they are provided milk mixed with supplements such as Boost or Horlicks to help regain energy.
Young police personnel from various camps are selected for duty at the Eighteen Steps. Each officer works a total of six hours per day. The target is to help 70 to 80 pilgrims climb the steps per minute. However, officers say that usually around 65 to 75 pilgrims are assisted per minute.
This systematic approach ensures both smooth pilgrim movement and the safety and well-being of the police personnel serving at one of Sabarimala’s most sacred and demanding locations.