Kochi: The Kerala High Court has directed strict enforcement of  plastic ban at Sabarimala, highlighting the need for intensified surveillance across key pilgrimage zones such as Sannidanam, Pamba, Nilakkal, and the forest trekking paths. The court stressed that pilgrims should not be permitted to bring plastic covers in their Irumudikettu (traditional pilgrimage kit) or in any other form.

The directive was issued by the High Court’s Devaswom Bench, comprising Justice Anil K. Narendran and Justice S. Murali Krishna. The Bench further instructed the Travancore Devaswom Board to issue clear advisories to pilgrims, and to display notices in the virtual queue system informing devotees of the ban.

The court also took serious note of reports regarding last season's plastic waste being dumped and burnt in forest areas. It directed the Deputy Director (West Division) of the Periyar Tiger Reserve to initiate action under the Wildlife Protection Act against those responsible. A report by the Special Commissioner had flagged these actions as posing a serious threat to wildlife.

The Bench considered a forest department report stating that elephants and deers had died after consuming waste, including sugar sacks, from garbage heaps near the pilgrimage site. The court instructed that all violations and concerns be reported via the Special Commissioner.

Additionally, the Travancore Devaswom Board was urged to consider proposals to improve solid waste management at Sabarimala. The Pollution Control Board and the Deputy Director of the Periyar Tiger Reserve have been directed to collaborate with the Devaswom Board to formulate an effective action plan.

The judgment underlines the need for environmental sensitivity in one of India’s most revered pilgrimage centres and emphasises the shared responsibility of multiple agencies in ensuring sustainable practices.