Police have intensified surveillance at Sabarimala as pilgrim turnout nears one lakh and reports of thefts and related offences rise. A special team has been deployed at key points, particularly Pampa, Sannidhanam, Neelimala and Appachimedu, to curb pickpocketing and theft
Sabarimala temple’s collections reached Rs 92 crore in the first 15 days of the Mandala-Makaravilakku season, up 33per cent from last year. Aravana and appam sales contributed significantly, with around 13 lakh devotees visiting the hill shrine till November 30
Sabarimala is set to open for the 41-day Mandala pilgrimage season beginning Monday, with the Travancore Devaswom Board completing all arrangements for lakhs of devotees. Facilities include drinking water points, medical centres, sanitation services and strict virtual queue control
