SABARIMALA : As part of tightening security measures at the Lord Ayyappa temple and to prevent occurrence of any untoward incident, an aerial survey operation was conducted by IAF helicopter here on Monday.The aerial survey covered the temple, its surrounding areas and nearby forest areas during day time.
Combing operation
The joint team of Central Paramilitary Force, including the Rapid Action Force of the CRPF and the National Disaster and Response Force under the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and commando personnel of the Kerala Police carried out a combing operation in the forest areas leading to the temple in the afternoon. The team has also stepped up night patrolling.
Even as the security measures were tightened at the temple, no extra restriction was imposed on the pilgrims for climbing the Holy Steps in front of the Sreekovil and for neyyabhishekam. Unlike previous years, no curbs have been imposed on the movement of pilgrims at Sopanam. Barring metal detectors at nadapandal, lower thirumuttam and Pampa, no special restriction has been imposed on pilgrims.
Heavy rush of pilgrims
The temple witnessed heavy flow of pilgrims for darshan on Monday. Due to the heavy rush, the pilgrims were forced to remain in queue - extended up to Saramkuthi - for four to five five hours. Also, Heavy rush of pilgrims was witnessed on the trekking path between Pampa and Sabaripeedom.