Ayodhya/New Delhi/Shimla: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ayodhya Dham International Airport and unveiled the revamped Ayodhya Dham Railway Station, setting the stage for the grand opening on January 22. The event marked the return of the 'Jagmag' Avatar of Lord Ram to Ayodhya Dham after a gap of 551 years.
Addressing the gathering in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Modi, alongside Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, urged devotees to travel in limited numbers on January 22 to avoid chaos.
He also called for a swachh (cleanliness) drive in all temples across India from January 14 to 22, emphasizing the goal to make Ayodhya the cleanest city in the world.
Expressing gratitude to the people of Ayodhya for their overwhelming support, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the historic significance of December 30, the day Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose hoisted the flag in Andaman in 1943, calling it a pivotal moment in the country's history.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of preserving India's heritage while embracing modernity, citing the simultaneous progress in various sectors.
He announced the inauguration of development projects worth over Rs 1500 crore, aiming to establish a modern Ayodhya on the country's map.
Highlighting his achievements, Prime Minister Modi mentioned the construction of over 4,00,00,000 pucca houses for the poor, advancements in digital technology, and various infrastructure projects.
He underlined the government's commitment to preserving and promoting both ancient traditions and new developments.
Referring to Ayodhya's glorious past, the Prime Minister invoked Maharishi Valmiki's description of the city's prosperity and urged citizens to connect with modernity while preserving the ancient identity of Ayodhya.
The Prime Minister inaugurated the Ayodhya Dham Airport, named after Maharishi Valmiki, with a capacity to serve 10,00,000 passengers annually.
The airport when wholly ready, will handle 50 Lakh visitors at a time.
The revamped Ayodhya Dham Railway Station, capable of serving 15,000 people daily, was also unveiled.
When it will complete its all phases, Railway station will cater to 50 K visitors each day.
Announcing the launch of the Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat train series, Prime Minister Modi highlighted its role in rejuvenating Indian Railways.
The trains connect various pilgrimage centers across the country, promoting both development and heritage.
In anticipation of the grand opening on January 22, the Prime Minister urged devotees to celebrate with lighting diyas and emphasized the significance of making Ayodhya the cleanest city.
He requested pilgrims to avoid overcrowding on January 22, allowing for a smoother experience for everyone attending the event.
The Prime Minister concluded by expressing gratitude, seeking the blessings of Lord Shri Ram, and congratulating Ayodhya on its development initiatives.