Sabarimala: 18,741 Police Officers Deployed for Comprehensive Security

Pathanamthitta: The State Police Chief, Ravada Chandrasekhar, has announced that security arrangements for the Sabarimala Mandala–Makaravilakku pilgrimage have been fully completed. He made the statement during a review meeting held at Nilakkal to assess preparations for the annual pilgrimage.

Security measures have been planned in six phases, covering the entire Mandalam–Makaravilakku period. The temple area has been divided into three zones: Nilakkal, Pampa, and Sannidhanam. Officers of various ranks, including SPs, Additional SPs, DYSPs, Inspectors, Sub-Inspectors, and Civil Police personnel, have been deployed across the zones.

Drone surveillance will be conducted in Nilakkal, Pampa, and Sannidhanam. To ensure the safety of pilgrims and prevent traffic violations and accidents, bike and mobile patrolling will also be carried out. Kerala Police commandos will be stationed at key locations. Nilakkal has been designated as the main vehicle parking area, and unauthorized parking will not be permitted, the Police Chief said. Adequate CCTV coverage and toilet facilities will be provided, while special police arrangements will be made in intermediate halls. Barricades, lifeguards, and other security measures have been arranged along the Pampa riverbanks.

Crowd management will be implemented at queue complexes. The newly constructed German model sheds on the Pampa riverbank can accommodate up to 4,000 pilgrims. A Special Anti-Theft Squad has been appointed to prevent pickpocketing, unauthorized trading, and other antisocial activities. AI-assisted CCTV will be used to identify habitual offenders. The Pampa Police have also developed an app to track temporary workers, including dolly staff. Special lanes will be maintained for ambulances.

A 24-hour integrated control room will operate at Pampa, including personnel from the Police, District Administration, Fire and Rescue Services, Health, Water Resources, Irrigation Department, Devaswom Board, and KSRTC.