Pathanamthitta: To ensure the sanctity of the forest areas and the safety of pilgrims during the Sabarimala Mandal-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season, stringent prohibitions have been imposed on the sale and consumption of alcohol and tobacco products. The restrictions will be in effect from November 15, 2026, to January 20, 2027. Authorities have taken these measures to prevent the use and illicit sale of intoxicating substances considering the large influx of devotees visiting Sabarimala during the pilgrimage.
The ban is enforced mainly in pilgrimage centres and surrounding areas where devotees predominantly gather, including Sannidhanam, Pampa, and Nilakkal. The regulation covers 16 localities within Perunad village of Ranni taluk: Chalakkayam, Pampa, Thriveni, Karimala, Cheriyanavattam, Valiyanavattam, Neelimala, Shabaripidam, Marakootam, Sannidhanam, Kumbalamtod, Orakuzhi, Plappally, Nilakkal, Attathod, and Kollamoozhi. Additionally, the ban extends to the Pampavali area of Kollamula village. However, the Arayanjilimoon area has been excluded from the purview of these restrictions. The prohibition zones have been determined by including the main pilgrimage routes and midway halting points connected to the pilgrimage.
To effectively implement the prohibition order and monitor the sale and consumption of intoxicants in the pilgrimage regions, the Excise Department has introduced special arrangements. Temporary Excise Range Offices have commenced operations at Sannidhanam, Pampa, and Nilakkal. These offices will coordinate efforts to detect prohibited product transactions and consumption during the pilgrimage and ensure compliance with regulations.
The system targets areas with high pilgrim footfall for enhanced scrutiny. To further coordinate excise operations within the Sabarimala pilgrimage area, a special control room centred at Pampa will be established. The Control Room, led by the Assistant Excise Commissioner, will begin functioning from November 15. It will assist in coordinating the activities of the temporary Excise offices at Sannidhanam, Pampa, and Nilakkal and strengthen surveillance related to the prohibition.
Given that millions of devotees visit Sabarimala during the Mandal-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season, regulating the use and sale of intoxicants is considered crucial for maintaining security and public order within the pilgrimage zone. Since the restrictions remain in force until January 20, 2027, pilgrims and vendors are urged to strictly adhere to the prohibition order.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
