SUO MOTU Vs. STATE OF KERALA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The Special Commissioner, Sabarimala, has filed this report regarding the directions to be issued to the respective authorities to complete the maintenance and repair works of the road network leading to Sabarimala and maintain the roads and pedestrian facilities strictly in conformity with the relevant standards and guidelines, to ensure strict enforcement of Road Safety Policy and also the provisions under the Motor Vehicles (Driving) Regulations, 2017, in terms of the directions contained in the orders of the Apex Court and this Court, in order to ensure the safety of most vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, children, elderly and differently-abled persons, during Mandala-Makaravilakku festival season of 1198 ME (2022-23).

(2.) In the report, it is stated that, Sabarimala pilgrims travel in different types of vehicles including Light Motor Vehicles and Contract Carriages from other States and far away places. Often these vehicles are seen flouting the prescribed standards of road safety, which are fitted with high-power music systems and prohibited lighting, which distracts the concentration of the drivers. Reverse light is absent in some of the vehicles. Several tractors are plying between Pampa and Sannidhanam for ferrying goods. The roadworthiness of the tractors plying through the trekking path has to be checked by competent authorities. The Public Works Department (PWD), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Kerala State Transport Project (KSTP) have to complete the repair and maintenance work of the entire road network leading to Sabarimala. Along with this SSCR, the Special Commissioner has placed on record Annexures 1 to 4 reports of the Chief Engineer, PWD (NH) Division and Chief Engineer (Projects), KSTP. The repair and maintenance work of all identified roads and also other roads leading to Sabarimala are progressing on a war footing. In paragraphs 8 and 9 of SSCR, the Special Commissioner has pointed out the progress of the pending works.

(3.) Heard the learned Senior Government Pleader, the learned Standing Counsel for Travancore Devaswom Board, the learned Deputy Solicitor General of India and also the learned Amicus Curiae for the Special Commissioner.