Ayodhya divided into 6 zones, 11 sectors as Ram temple draws huge rush from Maha Kumbh

Prayagraj Maha Kumbh

Ayodhya continues to witness huge footfall due to the surge in the number of pilgrims visiting Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela. So far, 53 crore devotees have taken holy dip at the Sangam and this will continue for the next eight days, according to the official figures.

The road distance between Ayodhya and Prayagraj is around 168 kilometers while by train, the distance is around 158 kilometers.

Since the beginning of Maha Kumbh Mela, people who are going to take a bath at Sangam are also visiting Ayodhya for a darshan of Lord Ram. "Lakhs of devotees have been coming here since morning to take darshan and take a dip in the Saryu river," police said.

How cops are managing the heavy rush:

• The administration has divided Ayodhya into six zones and 11 sectors to control the crowd visiting the Ram temple.
• The Additional Superintendent of Police has been deputed at the zonal level and the Deputy Superintendent has been deputed at the sector level.
• There are various diversion points and static points where inspector, deputy inspector, constable and women police have been deployed.
• A route has been made for the devotees, and they are being given darshan by making a way to come on one side and go on the other side.
• Some holding areas has been identified where devotees are placed when the number rises.

Yogi said that the number of devotees visiting Ayodhya has skyrocketed from 2.35 lakh in 2016-17 to over 14-15 crore in 2024.

"Prayagraj, Kashi and Ayodhya showed India's potential. Our economics is better than those who oppose Maha Kumbh. Devotees are also making the world realise their strength by showing India's faith to the world. More than 53 crore devotees have taken a holy dip so far. In 2016-17, when there was no BJP government in UP, only 2.35 lakh devotees used to come to Ayodhya, in 2024 this number increased to more than 14-15 crore," said the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

"Along with respecting faith, its economic aspect is also important. UP has made a lot of progress in 8 years, now on festivals, gifts of ODOP (One District One Product) products are given, not Chinese products. For the first time under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the faith of the country got respect," said the CMO.