Copyright thehindu
With the annual pilgrimage season at the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple under way, authorities have urged devotees to strictly adhere to their allotted time slots in the virtual queue (VQ) booking system to prevent crowding and ensure smooth darshan. According to the Kerala Police, spot bookings are extremely limited, and those arriving without prior booking may face long delays and inconvenience. Officials warned that uncontrolled crowding could disrupt security arrangements and affect the safety of the pilgrims. “Devotees should begin their journey only after securing a confirmed VQ slot and must arrive at the shrine strictly within the allotted time,” it said in a statement. They also requested pilgrims from other States to plan their travel schedules accordingly to avoid unnecessary waiting or congestion. For safe experience Authorities have issued a detailed list of dos and don’ts to ensure a safe pilgrimage experience. Pilgrims are advised to take rest for five minutes after every ten minutes of walking during the climb and to use the traditional path via Marakoottam, Saramkuthy, and Nadapanthal to reach the Sannidhanam. They must follow the queue system while approaching the 18 holy steps and use the Nadapanthal flyover on their return journey. Devotees are also urged to make use of toilets and latrines, pay for dolly services only at official counters, and cooperate during security checks. In case of any difficulty, pilgrims may approach the police or contact the 24-hour helpline number on 14432 for emergency assistance, including vehicle breakdowns, medical issues, animal threats, thefts, or missing persons. Pilgrims are reminded to purchase food items only from licensed vendors, keep the pilgrimage route and premises clean, park vehicles only in designated areas, and make use of medical centres and oxygen parlours when required. Identification cards with contact details must be worn by children, and elderly devotees, and anyone separated from their group should report to the nearest police aid post. The police, meanwhile, has also listed a series of restrictions to be strictly followed. Devotees should not use mobile phones within temple premises, smoke, consume alcohol or drugs, jump queues, or rush while waiting. Carrying weapons, entertaining unauthorised vendors, and engaging in unhygienic practices such as urinating or defecating outside designated areas are strictly prohibited. Pilgrims should not make extra payments for services or leave waste anywhere other than bins. Breaking coconuts on the 18 holy steps or kneeling on the steps are banned; offerings should be made only at designated spots on either side of the steps. Devotees are also warned against using unauthorised return routes, resting at Upper Thirumuttam or Thanthrinada, spreading mats along pathways, or leaving clothes in the Pampa river.
