Authorities finalize preparations for Makaravilakku festival at Sabarimala

Authorities have made extensive arrangements for the Makaravilakku festival at Sabarimala. Seventeen emergency medical centers are set up along the pilgrim routes, and strict limits on the number of devotees at key viewpoints have been established. The largest viewing area, Pampa Hilltop, will accommodate 8,000 devotees, while other locations have varying caps. A control room for health services has been established, and 300 buses will transport devotees after the festival. To enhance security, 245 surveillance cameras have been installed, and 5,000 police personnel will be deployed. An exit plan is in place to manage the flow of pilgrims after the event.