Traditional route and Swami Ayyappan Road: Both routes to be prepared for President's Sabarimala visit

PATHANAMTHITTA: Preparations will be made on both the traditional route and Swami Ayyappan Road for the President, who will arrive at Sabarimala on the 18th of this month. She will start climbing the hill on foot from Pamba. The police informed the SPG team, which is responsible for the security of the President, that it is advisable to climb the hill via the traditional route, considering the weather and rest facilities. An emergency ambulance service will also be arranged via Swami Ayyappan Road as an essential service. The SPG will decide which route to take after the inspection.

Traditional route

• Pamba - Neelimala - Appachimedu - Marakoottam - Chandranandan Road, Sannidhanam via Saramkuthi (Police say it is advisable to reach Sannidhanam via Chandranandan Road from Marakoottam)
• The distance from Pamba is 3.8 km. The steep climb will make the journey difficult.
• The minimum time to walk to Sannidhanam is one hour and 10 minutes
• Cardiology centers and rest centers in Neelimala and Appachimedu
• Roofing in various parts to avoid rain and sun

Swami Ayyappan Road

• Pamba - Pathinonnam Valavu - Charalmedu - Marakkoottam - Sannidhanam
• Distance 4.1 km. Hill climb with twists and turns
• Minimum time 1 hour
• Medical centres in Pathinonnam Valavu and Charalmedu
• No roofs to rest in case of rain
• Less strenuous route than the traditional route

Four dollies will be prepared

Four dollies will be prepared to reach the Sannidhanam in case the President finds it difficult to climb the hill on foot. 16 people who are experienced in carrying dollies will be selected for this purpose.