Sabarimala pilgrims get new web portal and WhatsApp chatbot

In a major relief to millions of devotees travelling to the Sabarimala shrine, the Pathanamthitta District Disaster Management Authority has introduced the new Sabari Portal and an interactive WhatsApp chatbot. Designed to serve as a comprehensive digital assistant, this initiative consolidates essential services, key pilgrim information, and grievance redressal mechanisms onto a single platform for the first time. Devotees can access the portal online here.

Key features and navigation
The innovative platform was designed and developed by Ajith Srinivas, Junior Superintendent at the Pathanamthitta Collectorate, alongside B Yagesh, Revenue Inspector at the Land Revenue Commissionerate. The portal provides real-time access to daily puja schedules and includes direct links for virtual queue bookings, ensuring a smoother journey for pilgrims.

Interactive maps and travel assistance
A dedicated 'Sabari Map' feature helps devotees locate drinking water points, public toilets, medical facilities, police stations, and parking zones across key locations including Pamba, Nilakkal, and Sannidhanam. Additionally, the platform lists contact details and locations of major government hospitals and medical colleges across Kerala, alongside train timetables for nearby stations such as Chengannur, Tiruvalla, and Kottayam.

Transport schedules and bill verification
Pilgrims can easily check long-distance bus schedules operating to and from Pamba, as well as timings for the frequent Nilakkal-Pamba shuttle services. To prevent overcharging, the portal features a 'Check My Bill' tool where users can verify official prices of items sold at the pilgrimage site and lodge instant complaints if overcharged. Furthermore, the WhatsApp chatbot offers conversational assistance, while an integrated 'Lost and Found' feature allows pilgrims to report missing belongings, phones, or lost family members directly to the police.

Manorama Online webinar
Devotees can clear their doubts regarding the arrangements and facilities for ‘darshan’ at Sabarimala during the annual pilgrimage, at a webinar being organised by Manorama Online. Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) P Vijayan will interact with the participants at the webinar, scheduled at 6 pm on Wednesday, and answer their queries.  Those who wish to join the webinar have to register. The free registration could be carried out by contacting the number 79947 99404.