The state cabinet has approved the master plan aimed at the comprehensive development of Sabarimala, which attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Alongside, the master plan for the development of Pamba has also been approved. The combined budget for both plans is Rs 1,333.62 crore. Discussions about master plans for the development of Sannidhanam, Pamba, and Nilakkal have been ongoing for decades. However, environmental challenges, lack of funds, and most importantly, the reluctance to undertake such large-scale projects have delayed progress. While the cabinet’s approval of the Sabarimala master plan is a significant step, it does not guarantee immediate implementation. The success of the project depends on various favourable conditions aligning.

The development plan for the region, which includes the sanctuary, will be divided into eight parts. Projects worth Rs 778 crore are included in this. It has been decided that only essential personnel, such as tantris and priests, will have residential facilities at the Sannidhanam. The existing structures there will be completely demolished and replaced with extensive facilities to make the darshan experience more comfortable. Nilakkal, currently used for parking, will be transformed into a base camp for pilgrims. Rs 255 crore has been allocated for the development of both banks of the Pamba River. The master plan also includes funds to create extensive facilities for those reaching Sannidhanam via the forest path.

The limited facilities currently available are insufficient to accommodate the influx of pilgrims, necessitating strict crowd control measures during peak seasons. If the master plan is fully implemented, the number of pilgrims who can visit will double or even exceed current levels. This would significantly increase revenue for both the Devaswom Board and, indirectly, the state. The board currently views the Rs 300–400 crore revenue earned during the pilgrimage season as something huge. However, to move away from this conservative outlook, it is essential to establish expansive facilities that support a smoother pilgrimage experience without delay.

The Uttar Pradesh government is expecting 40 crore pilgrims for the Maha Kumbh Mela, which begins on the 13th of this month in Prayagraj. The state has arranged some of the most extensive facilities in the world for the event. They are also anticipating a revenue of Rs 2 lakh crore.

This revenue is twice the annual budget of Kerala. Several states, including Uttar Pradesh, have demonstrated that pilgrimage can be a significant source of revenue. Kerala, too, should strive to reach such levels. However, the tragic incident in Tirupati a few days ago, where six people were crushed to death in a stampede, is deeply saddening. Tirupati is renowned as a pilgrimage centre with impeccable crowd management systems. The stampede occurred during the distribution of coupons for Vaikuntha Ekadashi darshan. This is a disaster that can occur anywhere where large crowds gather. Sabarimala is gearing up for Makaravilakku. Special attention must be paid to ensuring foolproof arrangements to regulate the pilgrims without leaving any room for accidents.