Rs 550 crore Sabarimala package; road repairs to begin soon

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Road repair and improvement works on routes to Sabarimala will begin soon ahead of the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season, with the Finance Department allocating Rs 550 crore to the Public Works Department as a special package. The allocation is aimed at ensuring safe and quality roads for pilgrims during the season. The decision followed a discussion between Public Works Minister P.K. Basheer and Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan.
According to the minister, this is the first time in the past 10 years that such a large amount has been allocated for Sabarimala in a single instalment. All major development works on the pilgrimage routes will be completed before the start of the season, Basheer said.

Works that were previously undertaken by the Travancore Devaswom Board at Nilakkal and Pampa have also been entrusted to the Public Works Department. An additional Rs 15 crore has been sanctioned for these works.

The Public Works Department will coordinate with other departments to carry out the projects. Their progress will be reviewed periodically to ensure that the works are completed before the pilgrimage season begins.

The Chief Minister has directed officials to complete the works within the stipulated timeframe without compromising on the execution of the projects, the minister said.

Focus on road safety

• The roads leading to Sabarimala will be upgraded and facilities for pilgrims improved. A separate Rs 15 crore has been allocated for road-safety measures.
• Incomplete works from previous years will be taken up on a priority basis. Government rest houses in the Sabarimala region will also be renovated and repaired.
• At accident-prone locations, crash barriers, speed breakers, reflectors and signboards will be installed. Trees and other vegetation obstructing visibility along the roads will also be removed.