KOCHI: The High Court made a crucial intervention after many devotees in Sabarimala complained about officials charging high parking rates in Erumeli. The Devaswom bench, while considering the plea related to the crowding at Sabarimala yesterday morning, sought an explanation from the Erumeli Gram Panchayat in this regard.

A fine of Rs 5,000 was imposed on the person who took the property for lease from the Devaswom board, and for charging excessive fees, officials said while hearing the petition in the afternoon.

The Panchayat Secretary explained that only six of the private parking grounds in Erumeli worked with a license, and a notice would be issued to the owners of other grounds.

The division bench also pointed out that there are complaints of excessive fees being charged in toilet complexes in Erumeli. The court also asked the people who took the land on lease to follow the earlier fixed rates and restricted them from charging higher rates.

The court also directed to ensure hygiene in restaurants working in the temple premises.

The HC however praised the amicable conduct of police officers with devotees during the years Sabarimala season. Last time, there were reports of unruly behaviour from police officers towards devotees near the Sopanam area.