The Sabarimala pilgrimage drawing lakhs of devotees grapples with enduring demands for improved facilities to alleviate the burdens of devotees facing extensive wait times of fifteen to twenty hours. Despite perennial calls for enhancements, the suffering of pilgrims persists with the authorities' apparent failure to meet their minimum needs.

In peak visitation days, approximately one lakh visitors flock to the revered site. However, both the Devaswom Board and the government seem incapable of providing adequate amenities raising concerns among devotees.

The contention around limitations to facility expansion holds truth due to the temple's forested location, restricting land availability for development. Nevertheless, the pertinent question arises: why can't a portion of land be allocated for devotees' necessities especially in a country where extensive forest lands have been earmarked for various purposes?

The recent culmination of the pilgrimage's initial phase witnessed distressing scenes of devotees enduring hours-long queues, vehicular obstructions along rough forest roads, and stringent controls en route to the Sannidhanam. Despite the High Court's directives to impose restrictions without inconveniencing devotees, traffic congestion persists.

The Court's recent order to promptly evacuate devotees after darshan aims to regulate the flow of pilgrims. Efficiently managing return journeys of devotees and enforcing a strict virtual queue system for Sannidhanam entry, akin to Tirupati's streamlined processes, are suggested solutions.

With the temple set to reopen for the Makarvilakku festival on December 30 for a limited two-week period, proactive measures must be in place to alleviate devotees' hardships, considering the potential overwhelming rush. The Mandal period witnessed unfortunate instances of individuals unable to complete their pilgrimage due to difficulties garnering complaints from pilgrims, even those from neighboring countries.

Addressing these concerns and ensuring necessary facilities is imperative for the Devaswom Board and the government. Failing to meet pilgrims' needs may lead to discontent and criticism underscoring the need for urgent improvements before the temple's reopening.