Keralam MLA pushes for night access to Sabarimala trek path, sparks controversy

File photo of Sabarimala pilgrims trekking through the forest route.

With the Sabarimala season just over a month away, a row has erupted over the traditional Erumely-Pampa forest route, with Poonjar MLA M.J. Sebastian seeking round-the-clock access to the 30.7-km stretch.

According to Mr. Sebastian, allowing pilgrims to use the route round the clock during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season would ease congestion and make the trek more convenient. The Forest department, however, maintains that the existing restrictions are necessary as large sections of the route pass through forest areas frequented by wild animals.

The traditional trek route to the hill temple begins at Koyikkakavu near Erumely. The stretch from Koyikkakavu temple to Kalaketty falls under the Kottayam forest division, while the remaining portion comes under the Periyar Tiger Reserve (West). Pilgrim movement is regulated at forest check posts along the route to ensure that they do not remain inside the forest beyond the designated hours.

Restrictions in place