Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan wants to make the famous Sabarimala shrine easier for devotees to reach, all while protecting the environment. He shared these thoughts during a speech at the Global Ayyappa Convention in Pampa on September 20.
Vijayan stressed that the goal is to simplify the pilgrimage journey. “We need better transport options, virtual tools for connectivity, and help desks with info and registration in multiple languages,” he said. This way, devotees from around the world can visit, pray, and head home safely without as much hassle.
He pushed back against claims that the state government is stirring up trouble. “Some people twist our efforts to create division, but that hurts Sabarimala and its followers,” Vijayan added. The focus stays on improving access for global pilgrims, not causing rifts.
On demands to shift temple control from the Devasom Board to believers only, Vijayan pointed to history. “Believers themselves pushed for these boards back when temples were falling apart,” he explained. The boards stepped in, saved many sites, paid staff, and kept worship spots standing strong.
The government has poured money into Sabarimala, especially during tough times. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it gave Rs 140 crore in aid. Another Rs 129 crore went to renovations, and since 2011-12, about Rs 148 crore has funded projects under the Sabarimala Master Plan.
Vijayan cleared up myths about temple funds. “The government doesn’t take a single rupee from Sabarimala revenues,” he said. Instead, it keeps supporting temple operations, employee salaries, and growth initiatives.
Even though some groups skipped the convention, Vijayan highlighted its roots. “This isn’t a rushed idea—it’s built on years of talks,” he noted. Devotees from places like Malaysia and Singapore shared their worries about reaching Sabarimala, sparking the event.
Looking ahead, the Sabarimala development plan stretches to 2050. It covers key spots like Sannidhanam, Pamba, trekking paths, and Nilakkal. The design honors the site’s spiritual roots and Kerala traditions, with upgrades for safety and beauty.
Costs break down like this: The first phase from 2022-2027 runs about Rs 600.47 crore, the second from 2028-2033 is Rs 100.02 crore, and the third from 2034-2039 totals Rs 77.68 crore—for a phased sum of Rs 778.17 crore. For Sannidhanam, Pamba, and routes, expect Rs 1,033.62 crore overall. Between 2025 and 2030, Rs 314.96 crore will boost pilgrim facilities, making visits smoother and greener.
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