MLA Seeks National Highway Status for Sabarimala Thiruvabharana Route
Pathanamthitta: Poonjar MLA Abin Varkey has urged the Kerala government to take steps to upgrade the Thiruvabharana Path, used for the ceremonial procession carrying the sacred ornaments of Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Swamy, to national highway standards.
The MLA met Public Works Department Minister P.K. Basheer and submitted a letter seeking necessary action to develop the route as a national highway.
The Thiruvabharana Path has a deep historical and traditional connection with the Sabarimala pilgrimage, and thousands of devotees use the route every year. In his letter, Varkey pointed out that the comprehensive development of the route has become increasingly important as the number of Sabarimala pilgrims continues to rise year after year.
Upgrading the road to national highway standards would facilitate a range of infrastructure improvements, including widening the road, improving transportation facilities and strengthening safety measures along the route.
The MLA also highlighted the national significance of the Sabarimala pilgrimage and the historical and traditional importance of the Thiruvabharana Path. He requested the Minister to initiate steps to secure national highway status for the route and ensure its comprehensive development.
Varkey had earlier raised the same demand during a meeting with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, seeking central support for the development of the important Sabarimala pilgrimage route.