Thiruvananthapuram, 13 September (H.S.):The Kerala government has sanctioned Rs 551.50 crore to the Public Works Department (PWD) for infrastructure development and other preparations ahead of the forthcoming Sabarimala pilgrimage season.

The allocation, approved through a government order, is considerably higher than the amounts provided during the previous two financial years. The decision reflects the government's efforts to improve road connectivity and ensure better basic amenities for the lakhs of devotees expected to visit the hill shrine during the pilgrimage season.

The proposal was submitted by the Public Works Minister following a high-level review meeting convened to assess the arrangements required at Sabarimala and along the major pilgrimage routes. The Chief Minister approved the proposal immediately, paving the way for the department to begin the necessary works without delay.

During the 2024-25 financial year, the government had allocated Rs 326.97 crore for Sabarimala-related preparations. The allocation was subsequently increased to Rs 377.80 crore in 2025-26. The latest sanction of Rs 551.50 crore represents an increase of Rs 173.70 crore over the previous year's provision.

The funds are expected to be used primarily for repairing and upgrading roads leading to Sabarimala, improving access routes used by pilgrims and strengthening essential public infrastructure. Special attention is likely to be given to roads that experience heavy traffic during the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season.

The government aims to complete the works in a time-bound manner before the arrival of large numbers of pilgrims. Officials are expected to closely monitor the progress and quality of the projects to prevent delays.

The increased allocation is intended to provide devotees with safer and smoother travel while easing congestion along key routes. It will also support improvements to basic facilities required to manage the substantial seasonal influx of pilgrims from Kerala and other states.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman