Complete all preps for Prez’s Ayodhya visit in time: Yogi

Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday reviewed the preparations for the proposed visit of President Droupadi Murmu to Ayodhya on March 19 and the upcoming Ram Navami celebrations.During the daylong visit, the CM first visited the Hanumangarhi Temple where he performed rituals and then proceeded to the Ram temple.While inspecting arrangements at the Ram temple, Yogi met with the Temple Trust officials, public representatives, and police and administrative officials. Officials briefed the CM about preparations for Murmu's visit. Yogi directed the administration and Trust officials to to complete all preparations within the designated timeline.He also directed the police to maintain strict surveillance at all public places and ensure robust security measures are in place. Additionally, he recommended that intelligence systems and anti-drone control rooms remain on high alert.The CM reviewed arrangements for the convenience of devotees expected to visit Ayodhya during Ram Navami. He directed officials to provide all necessary facilities for pilgrims and keep footpaths clear to facilitate smooth movement.Authorities should implement effective crowd management measures and broadcast 'Darshan and Pooja' programs on screens to manage large gatherings, he added.The CM directed that golf cart services be operated from Lata Mangeshkar Chowk to Hanumangarhi Temple during Ram Navami to help devotees avoid long walks. He stressed the importance of minimising VIP movement to prevent any inconvenience to public. The temple trust said it would not issue special passes for darshan. Though a limited number of visitors would be in the temple town on account of the high-profile visit, those visiting the temple would be able to view the special puja rituals and proceedings live on television screens that would be put up at multiple locations around the temple. Barring the period when Murmu would visit the sanctum sanctorum, visitors would be allowed to enter the temple.