UP government yet to allot land for IRCTC's Ayodhya budget hotel despite repeated requests

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has expressed frustration over a nearly five-year delay in receiving land from the Uttar Pradesh government for a proposed budget hotel in Ayodhya. The public sector undertaking, under the Railway Ministry, intended to build an inexpensive yet comprehensive accommodation for pilgrims near the railway station or bus depot in the holy city.

Despite continuous efforts and multiple correspondences, IRCTC officials reveal that the Uttar Pradesh Awas Vikas Parishad has allotted land to other entities, while their proposal, aimed at boosting tourism and providing affordable lodging, has remained unaddressed. The initial request was sent on September 3, 2020, to the then Chief Secretary, Rajendra Kumar Tiwari, at a time when IRCTC was actively involved in developing the Ayodhya Railway Station for an anticipated surge in pilgrims. Subsequent letters and reminders were sent by IRCTC's CMD and other officials to various state authorities, including the Principal Secretary of Uttar Pradesh Tourism and the Vice Chairman of Ayodhya Development Authority, all to no avail.

One of the letters, dated September 7, 2022, from then IRCTC CMD Rajni Hasija, underscored the objective of providing "inexpensive but all-inclusive accommodation and ancillary services" that would also enhance local employment opportunities. Despite assurances from authorities about the availability of a "land pool" for railway projects and tourism promotion, no specific land was ever identified or allotted.

Facing persistent inaction, IRCTC officials have reportedly ceased pursuing the matter, indicating their belief that further efforts would not yield positive results. This ongoing delay raises questions about the coordination between state and central entities in developing essential infrastructure for pilgrimage tourism in Ayodhya, especially given the city's growing prominence.