Sabarimala pilgrims to benefit from new ‘direct darshan’ route and elimination of flyovers

Sabarimala: It is being considered to take devotees who reach the Kodimaram (flagpost) after crossing the Pathinettampadi (18 divine steps) directly to Sopanam for darshan. If this model is successfully adopted, similar practices may be implemented in Guruvayur and other places, allowing pilgrims to have a longer darshan experience, from the flagpole steps to the front of the shrine.

Currently, pilgrims who ascend the steps for darshan are guided through a flyover, bringing them along the northern side of the shrine. During the darshan, devotees walk across the shrine, but during peak times, one person only gets darshan for about three seconds.

The Devaswom Board has received numerous complaints regarding this system, including feedback from pilgrims from other states, both directly and via email.

The Devaswom Board is now preparing to approach the court, having obtained the head priest's permission to introduce the new system. Under the new plan, after darshan, pilgrims will be directed to Chandranandan Road via Malikappuram and the Bailey Bridge.

As part of the Sabarimala Master Plan, the flyovers at Sannidhanam will be completely removed. In place of the Bailey Bridge, a new steel bridge will be constructed connecting Malikappuram to Chandranandan Road, with an estimated cost of Rs 48 crore. The government has already allocated Rs 10 crore for the first phase of this project.

Once this new bridge is completed, it will help eliminate the current to-and-fro movement over the Bailey Bridge.

Travancore Devaswom Board President PS Prasanth has stated that after the current pilgrimage season ends, they will take further steps regarding the new darshan system following detailed discussions and consultations.