Pathanamthitta: A damaged tracked excavator has been lying at Sabarimala for over two years. For 12 years, this excavator was involved in numerous tasks at the Sannidhanam (Sabarimala shrine), contributing to all developmental and modernisation works at the site before becoming dysfunctional.

The issue of the malfunctioning excavator was highlighted by Sasthamkotta native Dilip Kumar, who, during his visit to Sabarimala for the monthly puja, lodged a complaint with the Chief Minister of Kerala. In his complaint, Kumar requested that the excavator, which obstructed the movement of Ayyappa devotees, be removed from Marakoottam. Following this complaint, the Sabarimala office received several calls and letters.

It was later revealed that, even before the complaint, the Devaswom Board had initiated the process to remove the excavator from Marakootam. The board conducted several auctions in an attempt to dispose of the machine but failed to attract any bidders. A new auction process is now set to begin.

Minimum auction price

Prior to the auction, the Devaswom Board had tasked the Public Works Department (PWD) with determining the machine's value, which was initially set at Rs 9.5 lakh. However, as there were no takers, the PWD later lowered the price to Rs 8.5 lakh.

The Devaswom Board is considering its next steps if this auction also fails to attract bidders. Interestingly, in response to the Chief Minister’s directive, the Devaswom Board has stated that the excavator will be removed from the Sabarimala mountain before October 10.

Old vs New

The excavator, which was provided to the Devaswom free of charge by the government over 14 years ago, weighs 13 tons. PWD engineers have said that repairing the excavator is challenging, and even if repaired, it could only be used for one more year as it is a government vehicle. Purchasing a new tracked excavator is expected to cost Rs 65 lakh. This type of machine is essential for construction in hilly areas.