Aravana shortage to be solved soon: Kerala CM

Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 17: Kerala Chief Minister V S Achutanandan today said the shortage of Aravana Prasadam at Sabarimala temple would be solved within a week after a high level contingency meeting with officials connected with Sabarimala pilgrimage.

He said at present, about 1.50 lakh containers were needed daily for distribution of Aravana Prasadam, but the contractors were only providing 1.25 lakh. Steps would be taken to ensure enough containers, he added. Mr Achutanandan said in order to provide immediate medical attention to pilgrims, all facilities, including a mini-operation theatre, would be set up at the Sannidhanam, which would be ready by December 31.

Regarding an inquiry against the Travancore Dewasam Board members on the Aravana issue, he said all the three members of the TDB would come under the purview of the inquiry. The Chief Minister said more parking and other facilities would also be provided for the pilgrims.

The meeting was attended by ministers and Government officials of various departments. However, Devasom Minister G Sudhakaran, was not present at the meeting. Members of the Travancore Devasom Board were also not invited to the meeting.

The annual festivities, that began on November 17, have been plagued by various crisis and tiff among officials and ministers till now.

UNI