As per K. Radhakrishnan, the Minister for Devaswom, all arrangements have been finalized to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience. Advanced technologies, including a dynamic queue control system at Sannidhanam and video walls at Nilackal, Pampa, and Sannidhanam, have been implemented to manage pilgrim crowds. The e-Kanikka system for pilgrim donations has been enhanced for greater convenience.
Preparations at major base stations like Erumely, Chengannur, Kumily, Ettumanur, and Punalur have been concluded. The bus station at Pampa is now operational, with 473 buses scheduled to operate until the first week of December. Service frequency will be increased in the days leading up to the Makaravilakku festival.
Clearing the way for trekkers, a temporary barrage has been erected at Kakkiyar to ensure water supply to the Pampa base camp. Traditional trekking paths winding through the forest have been meticulously cleared, and eco-shops have sprung up along the Azhutakkadav-Cherianavattam (18 km) and Sathram-Sannidhanam (12 km) routes. A dedicated team of 75 Forest Guards, hailing from the Scheduled Tribes of the region, is committed to safeguarding these routes.
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At Nilackal, the parking grounds stand ready, complemented by the introduction of a FASTag system for seamless transactions. Collaborating with the Postal department, a system has been initiated to facilitate the delivery of offerings to the temple. Acknowledging the vital role played by the Vishuddhi Sena members in maintaining cleanliness at Sannidhanam and Pampa, their daily wage has been increased by ₹100, now totaling ₹550, and their travel allowance elevated from ₹850 to ₹1000.
In a plea to all temples under the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and privately managed ones, the Minister urged them to make their facilities available for accommodating Sabarimala pilgrims throughout the entire season.
Anticipating the surge in pilgrim activity, the BSNL has undertaken comprehensive preparations in and around the pilgrimage zone. The entire region now enjoys optical fibre connectivity, with the BSNL offering telecom services to various agencies. Additionally, 23 mobile towers have been strategically erected to enhance communication infrastructure.
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