In preparation for the upcoming Sabarimala Mandala Makaravilakku festival, authorities have decided to erect a temporary pavilion stretching from Marakkootam to Sharamkuthi Neck Point to enhance convenience for pilgrims. The pavilion will span approximately one to one-and-a-half kms along the trekking path and will be divided into two sections.
This decision was made during a meeting to plan preparations for the annual pilgrimage season at Sabarimala. Addressing the gathering, the Pathanamthitta District Collector emphasised the need for a thorough fire safety audit of the sheds along the Erumely-Mukkuzhi-Pamba route.
To ensure the safety of pilgrims, waste bins will be installed along forest trails and hazardous trees between Laha and Pampa will be cleared. A dedicated team will be deployed to relocate wild pigs from the pilgrimage area, while a 24-hour active elephant squad will manage wildlife encounters.
Emergency medical aid centres, including cardiology specialists, will be set up along the pilgrimage route from Pamba to Sannidhanam. Hospitals at Sannidhanam, Pamba, and Nilakkal Base Camp will be stocked with anti-venom medicines. Restoration work on the Mylapra-Mannarakulanji and Mannarkulanji-Chalakkayam-Pampa roads is progressing steadily. Drinking water will be made available at kiosks in Nilakkal Base Camp, Pampa, and Sannidhanam.
Fire services will be bolstered with assured coverage at key points including Sannidhanam, Pampa, Nilakkal Base Camp, and Panthalam. Scuba diving services will be available at Pamba for rescue operations. In areas without electricity between Nilakkal and Pampa, temporary solar lights may be installed. Authorities are also exploring parking facilities for 20 buses at Pampa hilltop.
A 24-hour Excise Control Room will be operational in Ranni. Food safety will be prioritised by displaying price lists at shops during the pilgrimage season and monitoring the quality and hygiene of food sold.