Pamba, Kerala: The renowned Sabarimala Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappan, is experiencing a surge in pilgrim numbers this year, leading to complaints of inadequate facilities and safety measures. Pilgrims from various states, including Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Thrissur, Kozhikode, and Malappuram, reportedly canceled their trips due to crowded conditions and lengthy waiting times. Some devotees protested authorities’ decisions, resulting in roadblocks. Altercations between devotees and the police were reported at Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, a significant pilgrimage center. Pilgrims, who had arrived the previous day, were prevented from proceeding to Sabarimala, leading to frustration and discontent. The situation escalated with a traffic jam affecting Pampa, Nilakkal, and Sannidhanam for four days.
Root Causes of the Pilgrimage Rush
Traffic Jams and Mismanagement
Reports suggest that a significant traffic jam occurred on December 8, affecting key locations like Pampa, Nilakkal, and Sannidhanam for four consecutive days. The mismanagement is attributed to the inability of police systems in Sannidhanam, Pampa, and Nilakkala to work seamlessly together.
Factors Contributing to the Surge
Several factors contributed to the sudden surge in pilgrims. Floods in Chennai disrupted train services to Kerala, affecting the travel plans of Ayyappan devotees from other states. Additionally, the conclusion of elections in Telangana prompted a massive influx of pilgrims who had delayed their journeys.
Flawed Planning and Unprecedented Crowds
The police and Devaswom Board allegedly failed to make adequate arrangements despite being aware of the expected daily footfall. Latecomers, in addition to those with prior bookings, exacerbated the situation, leading to an unprecedented level of crowding.
Government Response and Clarifications
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan addressed the challenges, asserting that the government is managing the situation carefully. He highlighted the allocation of Rs 220 crore over seven years for Sabarimala’s development and the ongoing projects approved by the high power committee of the high court. Vijayan outlined the ongoing development projects, including the construction of six rest areas at strategic locations. He emphasized that more than 1,20,000 pilgrims were arriving daily, necessitating adjustments in darshan timings and the implementation of Virtual Q to manage the crowd effectively.
Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan also expressed sadness over the incident and acknowledged that mismanagement could occur due to heavy rush during the peak season. He emphasized the need for public representatives to address the issue and find accountability for the situation.
Arrangements for Devotees
The Chief Minister assured that arrangements were in place for stranded devotees, with numerous drinking water kiosks installed at Nilakkal, Pampa, and Sannidhanam. Tanker lorries were deployed to supply purified water for various purposes, addressing concerns about basic amenities for the pilgrims.
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