Smoking may be banned in Sabarimala

SABARIMALA, Nov 21: Sabarimala Special Commissioner P K Balachandran is learnt to have prepared a report recommending the High Court to proh...

SABARIMALA, Nov 21: Sabarimala Special Commissioner P K Balachandran is learnt to have prepared a report recommending the High Court to prohibit smoking in Pampa and Sannidhanam.

Talking to The Indian Express on Friday, the Commissioner said the move was mainly intended to avert the possibility of any fire mishap in the area. Environmental aspect was also considered while initiating such a move, he said.

The sale of pan parag is already prohibited in the area. The commissioner has also directed the Pampa police special officer C Sofi to submit a report on the traffic congestion between Laha and the Rajampara stretch.

Story continues below this ad

Meanwhile, Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) state organising secretary Kummanam Rajasekharan has urged the authorities to ensure safety of pilgrims in view of increasing threats posed to the hill shrine.

The VHP leader also demanded a ban on sale of lethal weapons at Pampa and the trekking paths en route to Sabarimala. He said lethal weapons were being sold in at least 25 stalls inSabarimala.