PATHANAMTHITTA: The first official meeting to make preparations for President Draupadi Murmu's Sabarimala visit was held at the Pathanamthitta Collectorate today. District Collector S Premkrishnan presided over the meeting. Officials from the Public Works, Devaswom, Forest and Health departments attended.

It is learnt that the President, who will land in a helicopter at Nilakkal, will go to Pampa by car. The Forest Department informed that 14 trees are leaning towards the road on the Pampa route, posing a danger. These will be cut down. The President's Special Protection Group will travel on the Nilakkal-Pampa road and further steps will be taken as per their instructions. Goodrickal Range Officer AS Ashokan attended the meeting.

The Nilakkal-Chalakyam road is generally in good condition. Instructions were given to the Public Works Department to inspect the potholes, fill them and tar them. Executive Engineer Baburaj was the one who attended. The Devaswom Board will carry out the repairs on the road from Chalakayam to Pampa.

The Health Department will open emergency medical centres under the leadership of expert doctors in Nilakkal, Pampa and Sannidhanam. It is reported that the President will walk up the hill from Pampa to Sannidhanam. Medical centres and rest centres with oxygen and cardiac facilities will be set up in these areas. More facilities will be set up after the meeting chaired by the Chief Minister tomorrow.

Entry restrictions

The President's visit to Sabarimala is on the 18th and 19th of this month. Entry for ordinary pilgrims will be restricted on these days.