Health Department issues special instructions to devotees about Pampa snanam

PATHANAMTHITTA: The Sabarimala temple is opening today for the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season. In the backdrop of this, the Health Department issued a special alert in view of the reports of amoebic encephalitis in the state. Those taking snanam (purification ritual) at the Pampa river are warned to be careful not to get water in their noses. Authorities advised devotees to cover their noses or use nasal clips while taking a dip in the water.

The possibility of amoebic encephalitis in the Pampa River is low, as the water is perpetually flowing. If the water level in the river decreases by January, there is a possibility of it becoming stagnant in some parts. Authorities point out that there is a possibility of infection since it receives a large amount of sunlight. The health department instructed the Devaswom boards and local bodies to carry out cleaning, including chlorination, in temple ponds during the pilgrimage season.

Pilgrims will be allowed to enter the Sannidhanam from 1 pm today. After the Mandala Pooja, the temple will be closed on December 27. The temple will open again for the Makaravilakku season on December 30 at 5 pm. Makaravilakku is on January 14. The pilgrimage will conclude on January 20. Sabarimala Melshanthi E.D. Prasad and Malikappuram Melshanthi M.G. Manu Namboothiri will take charge today. The new Melshanthis will open the Sannidhanam and Malikappuram temples at Vrischika Pulari at 3 am tomorrow.