Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has sanctioned ₹551.5011 crore to the Public Works Department (PWD) for works related to preparations for the upcoming Sabarimala pilgrimage season.
The approval was given soon after a review meeting on Sabarimala pilgrimage preparations. Following the meeting, the Public Works Minister submitted a proposal to Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan, who gave immediate approval for the allocation.
The funds are expected to support various public works and infrastructure-related activities connected with the pilgrimage, including road-related works, repairs and other essential facilities required to ensure a smooth and safe journey for pilgrims.
Allocation higher than previous years
The latest allocation marks a significant increase compared with the amounts sanctioned in previous years.
The government had allocated ₹377.80 crore in 2025-26 for Sabarimala pilgrimage preparations, while ₹326.97 crore was sanctioned in 2024-25.
With the latest allocation of ₹551.5011 crore, the amount has increased by around ₹173.70 crore compared with 2025-26. Compared with the 2024-25 allocation, the increase is approximately ₹224.53 crore.
The higher allocation comes amid the need to strengthen infrastructure and ensure timely completion of works ahead of the pilgrimage season.
Focus on infrastructure and pilgrim convenience
Sabarimala attracts a large number of pilgrims from Kerala and other states during the annual pilgrimage season. Major transit and pilgrimage centres, including Pampa, Nilakkal, Erumeli and Pathanamthitta, witness significant movement of pilgrims.
In this context, maintaining and improving roads, bridges and other public infrastructure is considered crucial for ensuring smooth traffic movement and better facilities for pilgrims.
The government is expected to give priority to completing the sanctioned works within the required timeframe so that the infrastructure is ready before the peak pilgrimage period.
The Sabarimala review meeting also underlined the importance of coordination among various government departments involved in the pilgrimage arrangements. The substantial allocation to the Public Works Department is expected to accelerate infrastructure-related preparations and improve facilities for millions of pilgrims.
