Strict Safety Rules Ahead of Sabarimala Pilgrimage Season

The use of drones for unauthorised purposes has been completely banned at the Sabarimala shrine, Pamba, Nilakkal and surrounding forest areas ahead of the upcoming pilgrimage season. Security agencies will be permitted to operate drones only for official purposes and with prior approval from the District Police Chief. Authorities have introduced the restrictions anticipating a large influx of pilgrims. Unauthorised drone operations could threaten pilgrims’ safety and privacy, disrupt security arrangements and disturb wildlife in nearby forests.

Several other restrictions have also been announced to ensure a safe pilgrimage season. Unauthorised roadside sales along the Pamba–Sannidhanam route will be prohibited from November 11, 2026, to January 25, 2027. Tying or grazing cattle along the pilgrimage routes between Vadasserikkara and Attathode is also banned. As part of fire-prevention measures, hotels between Laha and Sannidhanam may store a maximum of five gas cylinders at a time. Unsafe storage of gas cylinders in open areas and cooking near vehicles along pilgrimage routes, at Nilakkal and in parking areas have also been prohibited. With the pilgrimage season approaching and footfall expected to rise, authorities are intensifying preparations.