The Kerala High Court, in a suo motu writ petition concerning crowd management during the Sabarimala pilgrimage, has issued a series of extensive directions aimed at ensuring safe, structured, and technology-driven conduct of the Mandala–Makaravilakku season 2026–27.
Taking note of past challenges, the Bench of Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K.V. Jayakumar emphasised the need for a coordinated institutional mechanism, directing the constitution of a multi-disciplinary Expert Committee to prepare a scientific and comprehensive pilgrimage management plan. The State Government has been asked to propose names of domain experts for this purpose.
A key highlight of the order is the Court’s approval of a daily cap of 75,000 pilgrims, based on carrying capacity assessments from Pamba to Sannidhanam. The Court stressed that pilgrim inflow must align with available infrastructure to ensure safety and avoid congestion.
The Court also endorsed a technology-led overhaul, including the creation of an AI-based Integrated Command and Control Centre, expansion of CCTV surveillance, use of RFID tracking, and digital queue management systems to regulate crowd movement in real time.
Significant directions were issued to improve infrastructure and amenities across Nilakkal, Pamba, and Sannidhanam, covering sanitation, drinking water, medical facilities, resting spaces, and waste management systems. The Court further mandated digitisation of pilgrimage administration, online booking systems, and transparent financial and contractual processes.
Emphasising safety, the Bench ordered structural, fire, and electrical audits, along with the development of dedicated emergency evacuation routes and disaster preparedness systems. Environmental safeguards were also underscored, particularly in view of the temple’s location within the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
The Court directed that all preparatory measures be completed at least two months before the commencement of the season, with strict timelines laid down for implementation and continuous judicial monitoring to ensure compliance.
The matter has been posted for further consideration on April 8, 2026, for submission of the panel of experts.
Appearances:
Government Pleader appeared for Respondents 1, 6, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 and 26.
Sri G. Biju, Standing Counsel, appeared for Respondents 7, 8, 9, 16 and 17.
Smt. Chitra Chandrasekharan, Standing Counsel, appeared for Respondents 10 and 11.
Sri George Johny, Standing Counsel, appeared for Respondent 12.
Sri B. Premod, Standing Counsel, appeared for Respondent 13.
Sri T. Naveen, Standing Counsel, appeared for Respondent 14.
Sri Deepu Thankan, Standing Counsel, appeared for Respondent 20.
Sri Nagraj Narayanan, Special Government Pleader (Forest)
