Kerala High Court Issues New Guidelines for Sabarimala Pilgrim Management
Kochi: The Kerala High Court has issued a detailed set of directions to the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to improve pilgrim management at the Sabarimala Temple for the 2026–27 Mandala-Makaravilakku season.
The court took suo motu action after problems were seen during the 2025–26 season, especially in handling large crowds. To avoid such issues, it has fixed a daily limit of 75,000 pilgrims. Last season saw a record turnout of more than 78 lakh devotees.
A Division Bench of Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V. and Justice K.V. Jayakumar said that controlling the number of pilgrims is necessary to ensure safety, order, and a smooth darshan experience. The court also noted that if all preparations are completed at least two months in advance, the pilgrimage can be conducted in a safe and well-organised manner.
To improve planning, the court has directed the TDB to set up a Sabarimala Infrastructure and Crowd Management Expert Committee at the earliest. This committee will help manage the pilgrimage in a more scientific and structured way.
The court has also focused on financial transparency. It has ordered the creation of a separate budget for the Sabarimala festival within the TDB’s overall budget. A chartered accountant will be appointed to regularly audit the accounts. All existing tenders and agreements must be reviewed and updated to include rules on cleanliness, food safety, environmental protection, and safety standards. A transparency audit has also been ordered.
On the technology side, the current Virtual Queue system must be upgraded into a more professional platform with real-time updates and cancellation options. Spot booking will also be regulated to prevent overcrowding. The court has suggested setting up an AI-based Integrated Command and Control Centre to improve coordination between departments and manage crowds more effectively. It also recommended the use of anti-drone systems for better security.
The court highlighted the need to improve infrastructure, especially in crowded areas like the Pampa–Triveni–KSRTC depot road. These roads should be widened as much as possible to ensure smooth traffic, better bus movement, and a clear path for emergency evacuation.
It has also ordered a full safety check of walkways, barricades, railings, stairways, and holding areas. Security screening systems must be upgraded as well.
In addition, the court stressed the importance of proper sanitation, waste management, and strict adherence to environmental rules. It also said that staff should be trained in soft skills to improve their interaction with pilgrims.