The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has been waiting for over five years for land from the Uttar Pradesh government to develop a budget hotel in Ayodhya. Aimed at catering to pilgrims, the project remains stalled despite repeated requests and assurances of land availability near the railway station or bus depot.
IRCTC officials first wrote to the state government in 2020, during the redevelopment of Ayodhya Railway Station, seeking land to establish a budget hotel or dormitory. Follow-up requests in 2021 and 2022 highlighted the initiative’s potential to boost tourism and create employment opportunities. However, the Uttar Pradesh Awas Vikas Parishad has yet to allocate land, citing no suitable pool identified for the project.
Despite letters and reminders sent to key state authorities, including the Chief Secretary and the Ayodhya Development Authority, the matter has seen no progress. The proposed budget hotel was envisioned to offer affordable accommodations with comprehensive amenities, enhancing the tourism infrastructure in the holy city.
IRCTC officials have expressed frustration and ceased pursuing the project, noting the lack of positive outcomes despite sustained efforts. The delay hampers a potentially transformative initiative for Ayodhya’s pilgrims and local economy.
source: PTI
