Kerala Announces Landmark Investment to Modernize Sabarimala Shrine

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced an ambitious Rs 1033.62 crore development plan for the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa shrine during the inauguration of the Global Ayyappa Sangam in Pathanamthitta. The initiative aims to enhance safety and convenience for millions of devotees visiting the hill-shrine, with projects spanning Sannidhanam, Pamba, and the trek route, targeted for completion by 2039.

Additionally, over Rs 300 crore will be allocated between 2025 and 2030 to upgrade basic facilities for pilgrims, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable pilgrimage experience. The announcement was made at the Global Ayyappa Sangam, a conclave marking the 75th anniversary of the Travancore Devaswom Board, attended by delegates from 15 countries and a significant contingent of around 1,000 devotees from Tamil Nadu, as noted by Board President P S Prasanth.

The conclave faced opposition from the Congress and BJP, with some critics attempting to halt the event through legal challenges in the Supreme Court. However, Vijayan emphasized that the apex court dismissed these efforts, allowing the summit to proceed.

This landmark investment underscores Kerala’s commitment to modernizing Sabarimala, reinforcing its status as a global pilgrimage destination.

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