Ayodhya Ram Mandir ceremony: Holiday declared for UP schools, colleges on Jan 22; liquor shops to stay shut

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ANI. Meanwhile, In preparation for the Pran Pratishta ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram Temple, the Uttar Pradesh government under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is gearing up to provide a comfortable and hassle-free ride for the devotees, said an official statement by the CMO. Under the directives of CM Yogi, the Transport Department has initiated a plan in which taxi and tourist bus vehicles will be reserved as needed during the various programs organised in Ayodhya, said the official statement.

Directives have been issued to taxi and tourist bus drivers to ensure the necessary reservations under different programs, said the statement adding that taxi and bus drivers have been instructed to practice safe driving, adhere to traffic rules, behave well with tourists, and wear uniforms mandatorily. The official statement further mentioned that instructions have also been given to drivers to abstain from any form of intoxication and chewing tobacco during this time, along with emphasizing the regular cleanliness of the vehicles.

The department has also issued a warning against charging passengers more than the specified fare under any circumstances. It is noteworthy that the atmosphere across the country has become charged with anticipation for the consecration ceremony of Lord Rama, scheduled to take place in Ayodhya on January 22.

In light of this, the state government is making preparations to ensure smooth transportation arrangements while also prioritizing the convenience of the devotees during the program, said the official statement by the CMO. The implementation of the plan has been initiated by the Transport Department, added the official statement.