Ayodhya’s Remarkable Transformation: Beyond the Ram Temple
By 2024, Ayodhya, the ancient temple town in Uttar Pradesh, is poised for a monumental transformation. Beyond the iconic Ram Temple construction, a staggering 200 developmental projects, valued at Rs 30,923 crore, are underway, making this a historic makeover.
In an interview with News18, Ayodhya’s district magistrate, Nitish Kumar, shed light on a series of beautification initiatives. These efforts aim to elevate Ayodhya to the status of “the most beautiful city in the world by 2024.”
Airport Development Challenges and Triumphs
One of the pivotal endeavors is the Maryada Purshottam Shri Ram International Airport. Kumar emphasized its significance, noting that the airport’s construction is nearing completion. Spanning 821 acres, the project includes a fully developed runway, CAT-1, and RESA facilities for night landings and extreme weather conditions. The ATC tower construction is also finalized.
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) is set to scrutinize factors like ILS and localizer glide path before approving flight operations. With finishing touches expected by the consecration ceremony on January 22, 2024, the airport will initially accommodate small aircraft, gradually transitioning to Boeing airplanes by 2025.
Ayodhya Junction’s Revitalization
Another focal point is the extensive rejuvenation of Ayodhya Junction, a massive facelift costing approximately Rs 620 crore. This project entails both expansion and beautification, mirroring the external facade of the passenger terminal building after the Ram Temple’s aesthetic.
The junction’s expansion, initiated in 2019 and divided into two phases, features a new three-story station building, including essential amenities like a drop-off zone, Foot Over Bridges (FoB), residential complexes, and enhanced platform areas. The completion of these projects is pivotal to accommodate the anticipated surge in tourists and devotees visiting the Ram Temple.
Clearing Paths and Corridors for Ayodhya
To alleviate traffic congestion leading to the Ram Temple, the UP government has allocated Rs 797 crore for road widening projects. Three paths – Ram Janmabhoomi Path, Bhakti Path, and Ram Path corridor – have been identified for construction and expansion. More than 1,000 workers are dedicated to completing these pathways by January 2024, effectively unclogging Ayodhya’s routes.
Beautification of Ancient Sites and Religious Places
Ayodhya’s overall beautification extends to 37 religious sites, ashrams, ancient ponds, and temples. With a budget of Rs 68.80 crore, the state tourism department is overseeing the rejuvenation work, covering sites like Janki Ghat, Bada Sthan, Dashrath Bhawan Mandir, and many more.
Surya Kund, an ancient Sun temple, has already undergone renovation, with plans for Bharat Kund’s development. This restoration aims to revive the significance and glory of these ancient water bodies, mentioned in the Ramayana.
Completion Timeline and Commitment
District Magistrate Nitish Kumar assures that most projects will be completed by December 2023. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a press conference in Ayodhya, reiterated the commitment to finishing ongoing projects by December 31, 2023. Emphasizing Ayodhya as Lord Ram’s favorite city, the government is determined to make it the most beautiful city globally.
This transformative journey goes beyond the Ram Temple, ushering Ayodhya into a new era of cultural, infrastructural, and aesthetic excellence.
