District Collector Conducted On-Site Inspection of Pilgrim Facilities at Sannidhanam, Pampa and Nilakkal Ahead of Mandala-Makaravilakku Season
District Collector Conducts On-Site Inspection at Sannidhanam, Pampa and Nilakkal, Reviews Infrastructure, Safety and Pilgrim Facilities Ahead of Sabarimala Mandala-Makaravilakku Season
Pathanamthitta: Preparations for the upcoming 2026–27 Sabarimala Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season were reviewed during an on-site inspection of key pilgrimage centres, including Sannidhanam, Pampa and Nilakkal.Pathanamthitta District Collector Nizamudeen A, IAS, led the inspection to assess the progress of infrastructure works, Pilgrim facilities and safety arrangements being put in place ahead of the pilgrimage season.
The visit formed part of the follow-up to the decisions taken at the Sabarimala preparatory review meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram under the chairmanship of Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan. During the inspection, the District Collector and officials assessed the readiness of facilities at various locations and reviewed the measures required to ensure smooth and efficient services for pilgrims.
The inspection was carried out in coordination with officials from the Travancore Devaswom Board, police, revenue, health and other concerned departments. The team, including the Devaswom Commissioner, Executive Officer and Devaswom Board engineering and maintenance personnel, visited several locations and buildings to assess the existing facilities and identify areas requiring additional arrangements.
Officials were directed to ensure that all essential facilities for pilgrims are completed and made operational within the stipulated time. Particular attention was given to infrastructure, safety arrangements and the availability of necessary services for both pilgrims and personnel deployed for duty.
The Devaswom Board has been instructed to complete its ongoing construction and maintenance works by November 10. A joint inspection will be conducted on November 11 and 12 to assess the overall readiness of the facilities and verify the completion of the works.
It was also decided that the basic infrastructure and essential services should be fully operational two days before the commencement of the Mandala season. The advance preparations are aimed at ensuring that facilities are ready for both pilgrims and employees reporting for duty and that services can be provided efficiently throughout the pilgrimage period.