Church Youths Clean Sabarimala Forest Path, Remove 10 Tonnes of Waste
Pathanamthitta: In a powerful display of communal harmony and environmental responsibility, members of the Christian community have reaffirmed their long-standing support for preserving the Sabarimala pilgrimage route, even in the backdrop of historical tensions.
Christian missionary activity in the region dates back to the 1850s, establishing deep social and cultural roots in and around the forested belts of Pathanamthitta. Over the decades, despite challenges such as the 1950 arson incident and the Nilakkal Cross controversy of the 1980s, the community has continued to engage constructively in initiatives that benefit the larger public.
The recent clean-up drive ‘Veru 2026’, organised by the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) of the Tiruvalla Archdiocese along the Erumeli–Mukkada forest path, stands as a testament to this continued commitment. The initiative focused on clearing waste from a key stretch used by thousands of Sabarimala pilgrims each year.
Around 200 youth volunteers participated in the drive, removing nearly 10 tonnes of plastic and non-biodegradable waste from a 4-km forest trail. The effort was carried out in coordination with the Erumeli panchayat and the forest department, ensuring proper collection and disposal of waste.
Community leaders and officials who addressed the gathering highlighted the importance of collective action in protecting fragile ecosystems and maintaining the sanctity of pilgrimage routes.
The initiative underscores how shared environmental concerns can transcend religious boundaries, with the Christian community playing an active role in safeguarding a path sacred to devotees of Lord Ayyappa.