The Kerala High Court on Friday allowed the executive officer to make minor adjustments to the cap on the number of pilgrims at Sabarimala, imposed by the court recently, in coordination with the chief coordinator and special commissioner.
This could be done in a situation where the influx of pilgrims was lower and at times when the concentration of pilgrims remained strictly within the limits of the green zone. The court had earlier issued directions that Virtual-Q bookings must be capped at 70,000 per day and spot bookings at 5,000 per day till November 24 to manage the crowd effectively and safely.
It also directed the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to ensure that the number of pilgrims allowed to use the Kanana Patha (forest trek trail) was strictly limited to 5,000 per day. These pilgrims must either have a valid Virtual-Q reservation or fall within the court-mandated seat reservation limit.
The TDB informed the court that the crowd density has reduced significantly following the court orders and restrictions imposed on the influx of pilgrims. The matter will be heard again on December 3.
Published – 21 Nov 2025 20:36 IST
