Kerala HC directs TDB to address deficiencies in fire safety systems at Sabarimala

Kerala High Court

The Kerala High Court has directed the Travancore Devaswom Board to rectify deficiencies identified in fire protection systems in Sabarimala Sannidhanam.

The Division Bench of Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan and K.V. Jayakumar emphasised that the maintenance of functional fire safety systems was not a matter of routine but concerned a potential threat to human life. It directed the authorities concerned to install safety systems compliant with the National Building Code at the Sannidhanam, including a fully functional hydrant network with adequate water pressure, automatic sprinkler systems, fire detection and alarm systems, smoke management facilities and properly maintained fire extinguishers, in all critical buildings and locations.

The Fire and Rescue Services department had reported that the buildings at Sannidhanam fell short of the mandated fire safety standards. It stated that many fire extinguishers were non-functional. The department pointed out that building owners and the authorities concerned were responsible for providing and maintaining permanent fire safety infrastructure. It informed the court that temporary fire stations were set up in eight locations, and 1,800 personnel were scheduled to be deployed in six phases. Additionally, 18 scuba divers would be deployed in each phase to ensure the pilgrims’ safety. As many as 32 fire and rescue vehicles would also be made available for emergency response operations. Approximately 150 Fire and Rescue Services personnel, along with 30 rescue vehicles, would be deployed at 11 designated points in connection with the Makaravilakku festival.

The court was considering reports from various authorities regarding the maintenance works carried out at the Sannidhanam in preparation for pilgrimage season, set to commence in mid-November.

The court directed the Local Self-Governments department to deploy four additional squads to continuously monitor preparation work in Erumely. The Board was asked to deploy additional staff to prevent the unauthorised sale of synthetic kumkum as well.

Additionally, the Food Safety department stated that raw materials used to make Aravana and Appam would only be allowed into the Sannidhanam after required quality checks at the Pampa laboratory. The Board and the Food Safety department informed the court that the laboratory facilities at Pampa would be strengthened. The authorities stated that any act of violation would be dealt with harshly under the Food Safety Act.