Shruti Suman
Since the consecration ceremony of Shri Ramlalla at the newly constructed Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, there has been a significant increase in the number of devotees visiting the temple to pay their respects to the deity.
To ensure a peaceful and pleasant experience for visitors, the local administration has been providing full support.
In line with this effort, the municipal authorities of Ayodhya have revealed plans to develop one of the banks along the Saryu River into a beach area, similar to a ‘chowpatty’.
The term ‘chowpatty’ is derived from the Marathi words ‘Chau-pati’ meaning ‘four channels or creeks’, and it is famously associated with Girgaon Chowpatty along the Queen’s Necklace in Mumbai.
The Housing Department of Uttar Pradesh has approved the proposal put forth by the local development authority to establish a chowpatty at Ram Ki Paidi, and the Ayodhya Development Authority has begun preparations to offer a variety of hygienically prepared food items.
A senior official from the Ayodhya Development Authority stated, “The plan involves creating temporary structures, designated zones for food stalls, and covered areas under canopies or pergolas at Ram Ki Paidi.”
A tender has been issued to commence work at the site, with the selected agency given a six-month timeline to complete the civil works. Subsequently, space will be allocated to food vendors.
The ADA has allocated a budget of Rs 4.66 crore for this flagship project.
The contractor will be responsible for constructing basic infrastructure, including electrification, sanitation, firefighting facilities, water supply, horticulture, parking zones, a paved entry route, and seating capacity for a minimum of 50 individuals at the site.
In addition to the chowpatty, a solar-powered boat will be launched on the Saryu River to promote Ayodhya as a model solar city.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh government aims to position Ayodhya as a major tourist destination by revitalizing it and introducing water sports and boating activities. The Guptar Ghat of Ayodhya, a spiritually significant location believed to be chosen by Lord Shri Ram to ascend to heaven, has been identified as an ideal spot for these initiatives.
Currently, the Lakshman Path, connecting Rajghat to Guptar Ghat, has been upgraded into a four-lane road through measures such as encroachment control and expansion.
