In a significant move to enhance connectivity and facilitate pilgrims and tourists visiting the holy city of Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the direct air service between Ahmedabad and Ayodhya on Thursday. The launch event marked the commencement of Indigo Airlines' direct flights, providing a convenient air travel option for those seeking darshan and worship of Lord Shri Ram.
Expressing his joy at the inauguration, CM Yogi Adityanath emphasised that Ayodhya is now directly connected to Ahmedabad through air services. Ahmedabad becomes the second connected city from Ayodhya after Delhi, with Mumbai becoming the third connected destination from 15 January.
Another flight service to Delhi is set to commence from 16 January 2024.
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, present at the event, expressed anticipation for the consecration of the Nava Deity of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on 22 January. He commended Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for successfully completing various development projects, including the timely construction of Ayodhya Airport in just 20 months.
Scindia congratulated everyone on the launch of IndiGo's flight service between Ahmedabad and Ayodhya, emphasising the convergence of vibrant Gujarat and spiritual Ayodhya through this initiative.
RK Singh, Special Director of Indigo Airlines, highlighted the airline's robust presence in the civil aviation sector of the country. The event showcased the collaborative efforts of both the state government and private enterprises in enhancing air connectivity, facilitating travel, and supporting Ayodhya's growing prominence as a religious and cultural hub.
Highlighting the broader impact on tourism and business activities, CM Yogi Adityanath described the improved air services as a significant boost to the region. He shared insights into the state's growing air traffic, revealing a 29.46 percent increase in the number of air passengers from 2016-17 to 2022-23. The Chief Minister stressed that the vision is to make air travel accessible to every citizen, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision for inclusive aviation services.