Tue Jan 14 10:40:00 UTC 2025: **Idukki Ready for Sabarimala Makaravilakku Festival with Enhanced Security Measures**

IDUKKI, KERALA – January 14, 2025 – The Idukki district administration has finalized preparations for the annual Makaravilakku festival at Sabarimala, focusing on enhanced safety and crowd management following the 2011 Pullumedu stampede. Over 1,200 police personnel, along with 150 special officers, will be deployed across the Kumily-Kozhikkanam route to prevent accidents and traffic congestion. The 9-km Nalam Mile-Pullumedu forest path will open to pilgrims on Tuesday morning but will close after the Makarajyothi ceremony.

District Collector V. Vigneshwari stated that pilgrims will not be permitted to proceed to Sannidhanam from Pullumedu after witnessing the Makarajyothi. The arrangements are in line with recommendations from the Hariharan Nair Commission, which investigated the 2011 tragedy that resulted in 102 deaths. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will provide continuous bus service on the Kumily-Kozhikkanam route. The Forest Department will maintain checkpoints along the forest path, providing essential amenities like food and water, and will work with the police to prevent unauthorized access to deep forest areas. A temporary mobile tower has been installed at Pullumedu to ensure communication. Gavi ecotourism destinations will be restricted until the festival concludes. Officials from various departments conducted a final review of arrangements on Monday.

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