- विज्ञापन -
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Police will deploy 5,000 officers for the Makaravilakku festival at the Sabarimala hill shrine, set for January 14.
The festival is anticipated to attract at least 250,000 devotees to the temple. According to a statement issued on Saturday, of the 5,000 officers, 1,800 will be stationed at Sannidhanam, 800 at Pampa, 700 at Nilakkal, 1,050 in Idukki, and 650 in Kottayam. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) will assist in maintaining security.
Kerala State Police Chief Sheikh Darvesh Sahib visited Sabarimala on Saturday to assess the festival’s preparations. Comprehensive arrangements are in place to enable devotees to view the Makara Jyothi and descend the hill safely.
A specialized deployment plan has been created for the Thiruvabharanam procession, which is expected to arrive at the Sabarimala temple on Makaravilakku day. This plan incorporates the assignment of an SP, 12 DySPs, and 31 Circle Inspectors, supported by 1,440 personnel.
Security has been heightened at all key locations, with close coordination among the police, fire and rescue services, and the NDRF. A high-level meeting involving all relevant departments is scheduled for Sunday to finalize preparations. Senior officers will supervise operations from strategic points.
ADGP S. Sreejith has been designated the Special Police Officer at the temple’s Sannidhanam. South Zone Inspector General of Police Syam Sundar will oversee arrangements at Pampa, DIG Ajeetha Begum will manage preparations at Nilakkal, and DIG Satheesh Bino will be responsible for the Erumeli-Idukki region.
An exit plan has also been prepared to effectively manage crowds after the festival, ensuring safe and efficient descents for devotees. This plan will be executed if required.
It is important to remember that a significant tragedy occurred during the Makaravilakku festival in 2011, resulting in the deaths of 106 devotees during a crowd crush at Pullumedu near Sabarimala. This incident took place on January 14, 2011, during Makara Jyothi Day and was later declared a national disaster as pilgrims were returning from the shrine on the festival’s final day, which typically attracts vast numbers of devotees.
