Ayodhya— Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath joined celebrations marking two years of Ayodhya Municipal Corporation’s second term, inaugurating 50 development projects and laying the foundation stone for 92 others, signalling a strong push towards comprehensive infrastructure and civic progress in the temple town.
Speaking at the event, CM Yogi described the day as historically significant, as it coincided with Ganga Dussehra, Saryu Mahotsav, and World Environment Day. He also participated in religious ceremonies, offering prayers at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and Hanuman Garhi, and performed tree plantation under the campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” at Chaudhary Charan Singh Ghat.
Highlighting Ayodhya’s transformation, the Chief Minister said, “On January 22, 2024, the world witnessed the consecration of Lord Ram’s idol at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi by Prime Minister Modi, ending a 500-year wait. Today, the divine presence of Shri Ram Darbar and six newly constructed temples was formally established — a testament to our cultural revival.”
Addressing the crowd, Yogi emphasized Ayodhya’s deep connection with the Saryu River, noting that Lord Ram’s identity is inseparable from it. He invoked ancient traditions and environmental responsibility, stating, “Just as King Bhagirath brought Ganga to Earth, today PM Modi is restoring its sanctity through the Namami Gange project.”
CM Yogi also announced a statewide tree plantation drive on June 23, the martyrdom day of Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee, and plans to revive at least one river in every district from July 1 to 7, with support from the Forest Department and local representatives. He urged every citizen to plant a tree in their mother’s name, calling it a simple yet profound step toward solving climate change and environmental degradation.
“Uttar Pradesh is fast emerging as an environmentally conscious and development-oriented state. Ayodhya’s 30 crore rupees worth of completed projects and 33 crore rupees worth of upcoming projects are proof of this commitment,” the CM noted.
He honored three women employees of the municipal corporation for their outstanding work and unveiled a commemorative publication titled “Two Remarkable Years of Service.” A short film showcasing the achievements of the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation was also screened.
CM Yogi praised the growing appeal of Ayodhya, pointing to improved sanitation, water ATMs, expanded roads, and the newly built Ayodhya International Airport, which has boosted connectivity and pilgrimage tourism. “Last year, 16 crore devotees visited Ayodhya. We must now rise to meet their expectations,” he added.
He called for the creation of theme-based city forests and green belts, named after key figures from the Ramayan, such as Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, Hanuman, and Nishadraj, to promote ecological awareness and devotion simultaneously.
The event was attended by several dignitaries including Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, Minister of State for Environment Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena, Mayor Girishpati Tripathi, municipal councillors, and senior officials.
The day concluded with prayers and blessings from the city’s temples, reinforcing Ayodhya’s place as a spiritual and sustainable urban icon in the making.
