The first phase of the redevelopment of the Ayodhya railway station is likely to be completed by the end of this year.
After the completion of the first phase, religious tourism in Ayodhya district is expected to get a big boost as the station will be able to cater to 25,000 passengers on peak days like Dussehra, Ram Navami, Diwali, Chaudah Kosi and Chaurasi Kosi parikramas.
It should be noted a large number of devotees visit Ayodhya every year. With the construction work of the Ram Mandir going on in full swing in the city and ‘darshan’ in the temple likely to be opened from next year, the number of devotees visiting the holy city is expected to rise manifold.
The Ayodhya railway station will be developed in two phases. In the first phase, a double-storied building, mela shed, circulating area, two foot overbridges, dormitory, infirmary, escalators, elevators, food court, air-conditioned retiring rooms, LED billboards, and other facilities will be developed, reports Economic Times.
The second phase of the redevelopment will include building of a large waiting and parking areas for pilgrims in the southern part of the railway station. The second phase of redevelopment will be taken up after acquiring land from the state government.
After the completion of the second phase, the railway station will be able to handle four times more passengers.