Home / Disasters and Accidents / Sabarimala Chaos: Roadworks, Bus Shortage Spark Pilgrim Protest
Sabarimala Chaos: Roadworks, Bus Shortage Spark Pilgrim Protest
18 Oct
Summary
- Pilgrims protested and blocked roads due to inadequate bus services.
- Ongoing roadworks on the Nilackal-Pampa stretch caused significant traffic jams.
- Concerns raised over incomplete infrastructure work before upcoming pilgrimage.
A prolonged bus wait at Pampa on Sunday led to a major protest by Sabarimala pilgrims who blocked the road. This occurred amidst severe traffic congestion on the Nilackal-Pampa stretch, stranding thousands of devotees. Officials cited ongoing roadworks and an insufficient number of Kerala State Road Transport Corporation buses as reasons for the chaos.
Devotees, including the elderly and children, faced hours of waiting with limited access to food and water. The shortage of buses significantly hampered the return journey, causing tense situations between pilgrims and police before escalating into a blockade. Concerns have been voiced about incomplete infrastructure repairs, particularly roadworks, potentially disrupting the upcoming 41-day Mandalam pilgrimage season.
The temple, open until October 22 for Thulam month rituals, is preparing for the Mandalam season starting November 16. Over 1.5 lakh virtual queue bookings were made for the first three days of the current season, with spot bookings expected to increase the rush. Police have doubled their force to 800 personnel for crowd management.
