No high-rise buildings around Ram Mandir: Ayodhya Authority enforces height restrictions under 2031 master plan

Ayodhya prepares to receive millions of pilgrims in the years ahead

In a significant urban planning decision aimed at preserving the sanctity and aesthetic character of the area surrounding the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) has prohibited the construction of high-rise buildings within a one-kilometre radius of the temple.

Under the newly enforced building regulations, no structure exceeding 15 metres will be permitted in this zone. The restrictions are part of the city’s long-term Master Plan 2031, which categorically defines height limits for constructions in the vicinity of the temple.

The restricted area has been divided into two zones: Restricted Temple Zone-1 (RTZ-1) and Restricted Temple Zone-2 (RTZ-2). In RTZ-1, buildings cannot exceed a height of 7.5 meters, while in RTZ-2, the permissible height limit is 15 meters. The stricter RTZ-1 encircles the core religious and heritage zone of the temple and includes several significant stretches.

According to officials, the boundaries of RTZ-1 include areas from Ranopali railway crossing, Raiganj Road to Rani Bazar crossing, Tapasvi Chhawni to Valmiki Bhavan, the southern section of Ram Ki Paidi to Lakshman Ghat, and the region behind Saket Degree College up to Ranopali crossing. These areas are considered part of the temple’s immediate sacred geography and thus warrant tighter control.

RTZ-2, which includes all other areas within the one-kilometre perimeter not covered under RTZ-1, allows for constructions up to 15 meters, but anything taller will not be permitted under any circumstances. The Ayodhya Development Authority has already installed notice boards across the restricted zones to make people aware of the regulations. Authorities have confirmed that no building map approval will be granted for structures exceeding the prescribed height in either of the zones.

“We have demarcated the area into two restricted zones around the Ram Mandir and defined maximum permissible building heights accordingly,” said Ashwani Kumar, Vice Chairman of the Ayodhya Development Authority. “Zone One allows construction only up to 7.5 meters, while Zone Two allows up to 15 meters. These rules are binding under the Master Plan 2031. Maps for taller structures will not be approved, and necessary inspections have been initiated.”

Officials have begun scrutinising existing structures and are preparing to issue notices to those found in violation of the new norms. Homeowners and developers who have either planned or already initiated constructions beyond the permissible limits will be served legal notices, and further action could follow. "This is about protecting both the skyline and spiritual ambience of the area surrounding the Ram Mandir," added Kumar.

The regulation comes in the backdrop of a significant urban transformation in Ayodhya following the construction of the Ram temple, which has turned the city into a major pilgrimage and tourist destination. With increased footfall and investment interest in real estate around the temple, there was growing concern about unregulated high-rises distorting the visual and cultural landscape. These rules are intended to ensure a harmonious blend of heritage conservation and planned development.

BJP leader Kamlesh Srivastava also welcomed the decision, highlighting both aesthetic and security considerations. “High-rise buildings around the Ram Mandir not only compromise the beauty and spiritual serenity of the temple complex but could also pose serious security concerns. The government’s decision to cap building heights is both wise and necessary,” Srivastava said.

The height restriction is also seen as a logical extension of the widening of the Ram Path, one of the major infrastructure projects linking the temple to various parts of the city. Officials say that the skyline around the temple must reflect its spiritual significance and not be overshadowed by aggressive vertical construction.

The boards now displayed prominently in the Ram Dham area cite specific clauses from the Ayodhya Master Plan 2031, clearly marking zones RTZ-1 and RTZ-2 and outlining the restrictions in Hindi. The move has been welcomed by many heritage conservationists and urban planners, who have long advocated for regulated development around sites of national religious and historical importance.

The Master Plan 2031, which has already been approved by the state government for Phase I, forms the foundation of a larger vision for transforming Ayodhya into a spiritual capital while maintaining its ancient character. With global attention focused on the Ram Mandir, authorities are keen to avoid the pitfalls of chaotic urbanisation that have affected other pilgrimage towns in India.

As Ayodhya prepares to receive millions of pilgrims in the years ahead, this strict zoning policy is seen as an essential measure to protect the temple's visual dominance and religious sanctity, ensuring that development in the city remains orderly, respectful, and sustainable.