Fresh push for Sabarimala master plan as land identification begins

Momentum is building around the long pending master plan for the integrated development of the Sabarimala pilgrimage zone, as authorities have kick-started formalities to identify forest land for acquisition, with an assurance that equivalent revenue land will be provided as compensation.

According to sources in the Travancore Devaswom Board, a joint inspection of the proposed forest land will be carried out once the ongoing Makaravilakku pilgrimage season concludes. Several important directives emerged during recent discussions held between the Forest department and members of the Travancore Devaswom Board governing body.

Several key decisions were taken, including not to use forest land for constructing multi-storey buildings, with the emphasis firmly on providing maximum basic amenities for pilgrims while minimising environmental impact.

Confirming the development, K. Jayakumar, TDB president, said the focus was on finalising short-term and medium-term priorities. “The works will begin as soon as the ongoing pilgrimage season is over. The modalities are now being finalised,” he said.

Reports of an expert team appointed by the board to study the speedy implementation of the master plan are expected shortly. Officials say resolving forest land clearance issues, which have long stalled progress, will give a decisive push to development activities at Sabarimala in line with the master plan.

The renewed effort also includes a formal review of the broader master plan framework. As part of this process, Mr. Jayakumar convened a meeting last month. Once long-term and mid-term priorities are clearly mapped, the board may explore the option of seeking sponsorship from trusted corporate houses if funding gaps arise.

While the Kerala government approved a new master plan for Sabarimala last year, the board’s immediate focus will remain on projects listed in the four-volume Sabarimala Master Plan prepared by Ecosmart, which has the approval of the Supreme Court.