Chaos at Sabarimala: Devotees Struggle Amid Massive Crowds

Around two lakh devotees arrived at the Sabarimala shrine for the mandala-makaravilakku pilgrimage, causing logistical challenges. The Travancore Devaswom Board and police struggled to manage the crowd, with reports of inadequate facilities and mismanagement. Authorities and political opponents called for improved arrangements and better planning for future pilgrimages.

The Sabarimala temple has witnessed overwhelming crowds as nearly two lakh devotees thronged the sacred site for the annual 'mandala-makaravilakku' pilgrimage within 48 hours of the temple's opening. The influx has resulted in logistical challenges for the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and local police, struggling to manage the influx efficiently.

Television visuals revealed a dense congregation of worshippers packed tightly near the shrine's iconic 18 steps. Long lines stretched from Pamba to Sannidhanam, with many devotees, including children, facing lengthy delays and lack of basic amenities like water.

TDB President K Jayakumar and ADGP S Sreejith assured that measures are being taken to address the situation, despite political criticism from opposition parties accusing the state government of poor planning and inadequate preparations for the pilgrimage season.

(With inputs from agencies.)