Sabarimala season: Sathram traditional route to open on Monday – Bns Sections.

The Forest division will open the traditional forest route by means of Sathram and Pullumedu to Sannidhanam at Sabarimala on Monday (November 17) – the day the Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrim season will start. According to Azhutha Range Officer D. Benny, pilgrims from Sathram will probably be ready to entry the traditional forest path from 7 a.m. “The pilgrims’ entry is allowed from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. A department team will inspect the forest path before allowing entry to the devotees.

“Drinking water facility is arranged at Seethakkulam, Zero Point, Pullumedu Tavalam, Kazhuthakkuhi and Pandithavalam points. Medical team are deployed at Pullumedu, and a medical ambulance is on standby at Seetakkulam point,” said Mr. Benny.

“The Forest department will ensure all pilgrims reach the Sannidhanam from the Sathram route safely, apart from the Ayyan mobile app, which also provides assistance to devotees. The Ayyan app was developed by the Periyar Tiger Reserve West Division, ensuring timely assistance to pilgrims, especially along the Sathram forest route to Sabarimala,“ said the official.

Collector, ADM inspects path

Idukki District Collector Dineshan Cheruvatt and Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Shyju P. Jacob, on Sunday (November 16), led an official team that inspected the traditional forest path and reviewed the arrangements.

Mr. Cheruvatt said that various departments had already completed all arrangements for a safe pilgrimage for all.

“Some inter-State devotees tried to trek to Sannidhanam from Pullumedu during the night after the Makara Jyothi Darshan. No devotees will be allowed to trek the traditional forest path at night,” the Collector stated.