PATHANAMTHITTA: Minister KB Ganesh Kumar emphasized easing congestion at Sabarimala by distributing aravana and appam away from the sannidhanam. He stressed that these offerings, made three months prior are not direct prasad for the Lord. Advocating for their sale outside the temple premises, the Minister highlighted the unnecessary crowding caused by purchasing these items directly at the shrine.

During a meeting with Transport Department officials at Pampa, Minister Kumar proposed the distribution of aravana and appam at alternate locations allowing advance bookings through banks. He questioned the insistence on buying exclusively from the sannidhanam emphasizing the resulting crowd buildup.

Additionally, the Minister addressed the issue of ghee purchases for Neyyabhishekham, stating that those holding coupons should have access. To alleviate congestion, he recommended swift facilitation by the stables and designated rest areas limited to the elderly and children along the footpath.

Minister Kumar assured that the upcoming Makaravilakku festivities would not disrupt pilgrims' journeys and emphasized the importance of streamlining procedures to ensure a smoother experience for all visitors.