Demand for QR Code-Based Special Pass System for Sabarimala Pilgrims Using Traditional Forest Route
Sabarimala: A demand has been raised to introduce a QR code-based pass system for Ayyappa devotees travelling to Sabarimala through the traditional 46-km forest route. The proposal aims to reduce long waiting times and provide easier access to darshan for pilgrims undertaking the difficult journey on foot.
The traditional forest route passes through several locations, including Kalakatti, Azhutha, Mukkuzhi, Karilanthodu, Valiyana Vattom and Cheriyana Vattom. Thousands of devotees use this route during the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season.
However, pilgrims completing the long forest trek often face additional difficulties after reaching Pamba. They are reportedly directed to join the regular queue near the bridge, along with devotees arriving by vehicles.
From there, they must pass through several waiting points, including Ganapathi Kovil, Marakkoottam and Sharamkuthi, before reaching Sannidhanam.
The long waiting hours create serious difficulties, particularly for elderly devotees and children who have already walked several kilometres through the forest.
Many pilgrims struggle to reach Sannidhanam before the temple closes at 11 PM. Those who miss the closing time must wait until the temple reopens at 5 AM the following morning. According to the report, some devotees even abandon their pilgrimage because of these difficulties.
Earlier, a special pass system was introduced at Mukkuzhi Devi Temple during the LDF government's tenure to help pilgrims using the forest route. However, the facility was later withdrawn following allegations that some devotees were transferring their passes to others.
To prevent such misuse, devotees have now suggested introducing a QR code-based pass system similar to the arrangement followed at Tirupati. Under the proposed system, passes would be linked to individual pilgrims and verified through QR code scanning.
Speaking to the media, Representatives of the Kattachira Bhadrakalikavu Devi Temple have called for the restoration of a special pass facility, with a proposed quota of 5,000 passes for pilgrims using the traditional forest route.
According to the representatives, around 5,000 passes were issued during the Mandala season under the earlier arrangement. However, pilgrim movement through the forest route can exceed 20,000 during the peak Makaravilakku period.
The temple representatives also pointed out that pilgrims travelling through the traditional forest route should receive the same priority given to devotees arriving through the Pullumedu route.
They urged the authorities to consider the difficulties faced by devotees undertaking the long forest pilgrimage and introduce a secure pass system to ensure smoother darshan at Sabarimala during the upcoming Mandala-Makaravilakku season.
Meanwhile, Several Devotee Organisations Urge TDB to Consider Special Passes for Sabarimala Pilgrims Using the Traditional Forest Route.