Safety Advisory for Pilgrims at Sabarimala Amid Rising Wildlife Risks

The Kerala Forest Department has issued a safety advisory for pilgrims at the Sabarimala temple complex, urging them to avoid the Urakkuzhi waterfalls. The area poses increased risks due to wildlife encounters and accidents. Pilgrims are advised to follow safety measures and avoid visiting the falls, particularly at night.

With the annual pilgrimage at the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala ongoing, the Kerala Forest Department has cautioned pilgrims against visiting the Urakkuzhi waterfalls due to heightened wildlife encounter risks and frequent accidents.

Sannidhanam Special Duty Range Officer Aravind Balakrishnan issued the advisory, citing growing safety concerns in the area, especially for pilgrims traveling via the traditional forest route who often stop at Urakkuzhi to bathe before reaching the sannidhanam.

Balakrishnan emphasized that access to this hazardous region is restricted under the Wildlife Protection Act, and accidents have increased with the regular movement of wild elephant herds. Pilgrims are strongly advised to avoid the waterfalls, particularly during late hours, as the pathway is steep and slippery, posing further danger. The officer reiterated that pilgrim safety remains the department's top priority and urged strict compliance with safety instructions.

(With inputs from agencies.)