Water Wealth: Sabarimala's New $84 Cr. Supply Activated

The Seethathodu–Nilackal Drinking Water Project has been officially commissioned, ensuring a reliable supply of safe drinking water for the upcoming Sabarimala pilgrimage season.

Inaugurated on 27 October 2025 by Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine at a ceremony organized by the Travancore Devaswom Board, the ₹84.38 crore project is designed to provide round-the-clock access to clean water for both pilgrims and local residents.

The project features a 13-million-litre-capacity water treatment plant, booster pump houses, and overhead storage tanks. Water will be drawn from a well near the Seethathodu fire station and transported through a 22.5 km pipeline to Nilackal.

Jointly funded by NABARD and the Jal Jeevan Mission, the initiative addresses the long-standing issue of water scarcity during the Mandalam–Makaravilakku festival season. Once fully operational, it will provide a sustainable and uninterrupted water supply, significantly reducing dependence on tanker lorries used in previous years.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.