The Kerala High Court has urged the state government to issue comprehensive guidelines for the upcoming Sabarimala pilgrimage in light of the recent Nipah virus outbreak in the state. The court’s directive comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims planning to visit the revered shrine during the pilgrimage season.
In response to the emerging concerns over the Nipah virus, which has seen a few reported cases in certain districts of Kerala, the High Court has emphasized the need for proactive measures to contain the spread of the virus and prevent any potential outbreaks within the pilgrim community.
The court’s request aligns with the state’s continued efforts to manage and mitigate the impact of the Nipah virus by implementing strict protocols and guidelines across affected regions. By extending these efforts to the pilgrimage at Sabarimala, authorities aim to create a safe and secure environment for devotees participating in the annual pilgrimage.
Authorities are expected to collaborate with health experts and organizations to develop guidelines that will cover various aspects of the pilgrimage, including crowd management, sanitation, health screenings, and adherence to COVID-19 protocols. The guidelines will also emphasize educating pilgrims about the symptoms of the Nipah virus and the necessary precautions to mitigate any potential risks.
The state government is taking this proactive step to ensure that the sacred Sabarimala pilgrimage remains a spiritually enriching experience while prioritizing the health and safety of devotees, especially in the backdrop of emerging public health concerns such as the Nipah virus outbreak.
