Sat Jan 04 13:34:39 UTC 2025: ## Sabarimala Gears Up for Makaravilakku Festival Amidst Record Pilgrim Numbers
**Pathanamthitta, January 4, 2025** – The Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple is buzzing with activity as authorities finalize preparations for the Makaravilakku festival on January 15th. This year’s pilgrimage season has already seen a record-breaking influx of devotees, exceeding expectations.
Over 3.24 million pilgrims have visited the temple in the first 41 days, a significant increase from last year’s 2.84 million during the same period. Revenue has also surged to ₹297 crore, compared to ₹214 crore last season. The daily average has been over 90,000 pilgrims.
Extensive security measures are in place to manage the anticipated large crowds. Joint inspections by police, forest, and health departments are underway at key locations, with a particular focus on crowd control at Valiyanavattom to ensure the smooth procession of sacred jewels from Pandalam on January 12th. The forest route has also seen significant usage, with over 1.4 lakh devotees using the Mukkuzhy route and 86,980 using the Sathram-Pullumedu route by January 1st.
To mitigate human-wildlife conflict, 109 wild boars have been relocated, elephant squads deployed, and temporary solar fences erected. A real-time monitoring system has been installed on the Sathram-Uppupara road, and a temporary wireless repeater station will be set up at Pullumedu to enhance communication. Eco-Development Committees and eco-guards are also active along forest routes. Temporary footbridges are under construction and expected to be completed by January 12th. Special arrangements are being made at Pullumedu for Makaravilakku day, including temporary barricades at the viewing point and increased patrols. KSRTC will provide special transport services from Nalam Mile.
Furthermore, Sabarimala has become the first 4G-enabled site in Pathanamthitta district, with BSNL providing high-speed internet access, funded by the Travancore Devaswom Board. Daily internet usage has reached 300 TB. Authorities are confident that all preparations will ensure a safe and smooth festival for all devotees.
First Piper 