Vijayawada: The Keralam State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has asked the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) to create environmental awareness among Ayyappa devotees from Andhra Pradesh and encourage responsible waste management during the Sabarimala pilgrimage season.
The appeal comes ahead of the 2026–27 Mandala-Makaravilakku season, which will begin on November 17 and continue until January 20, 2027.
The APPCB on Saturday shared the environmental guidelines issued by the KSPCB for devotees from the state.
The KSPCB has stressed the need to maintain cleanliness at Sannidhanam, Pamba, Nilakkal, Erumeli, forest areas and hill routes.
It has urged devotees to protect the natural ecosystem and biodiversity of the Sabarimala region and comply with the directions of the Keralam High Court.
Devotees have been advised to avoid plastic items in their Irumudi and use eco-friendly alternatives.
They have also been asked not to litter plastic or other waste along forest routes, hills and surrounding areas.
The boards have stressed the importance of segregating wet and dry waste and keeping biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials, including plastic, separate for disposal in designated bins.
Devotees have been cautioned against throwing plastic or other waste into the Pamba river.
They have also been urged not to discard used clothes in the river or Bhasmakulam.
The KSPCB has appealed to Ayyappa devotees from Andhra Pradesh to help preserve the sanctity of Sabarimala, maintain the cleanliness of the Pamba river and protect the surrounding forest ecosystem during the pilgrimage season.
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