₹4.22-Crore Security Upgrade Cleared for Ayodhya’s Ram Temple
The government of Uttar Pradesh has approved ₹4.22 crore to strengthen security arrangements at the Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya and enhance protection during visits by high-profile dignitaries and large religious gatherings.
According to officials from the state’s home department, the funding is part of an effort to upgrade security infrastructure in and around the temple complex, which has witnessed a sharp rise in visitors since its consecration in January 2024. Rama’s temple has become one of the country’s most visited pilgrimage sites, drawing large numbers of devotees as well as VIP visitors throughout the year. Out of the sanctioned amount, ₹3.53 crore has been allocated under the first phase of the Integrated Security Plan-2023 for the Ram Janmabhoomi pilgrimage area. The funds will be used to procure advanced security equipment and complete the installation of surveillance and protective systems already deployed around the temple complex and nearby establishments.
Officials said part of the budget will be used to purchase 34 bullet-proof jackets and two bullet-proof vehicles, specifically the Mahindra Marksman, which are designed for high-risk security operations and VVIP protection duties. Another ₹69.30 lakh has been sanctioned for the procurement of 200 portable door-frame metal detectors. These detectors will be deployed during high-profile visits by dignitaries such as governors, chief ministers and other senior officials, as well as during large religious gatherings, rallies and major public events across the state.
Authorities noted that the decision reflects growing security needs in Ayodhya as the temple continues to attract millions of pilgrims annually. The city has undergone rapid transformation with new infrastructure, transport connectivity and tourism facilities developed to accommodate increasing visitor numbers. Security experts say religious sites with extremely high footfall require layered protection systems that include crowd management, surveillance technology, access control and specialised security forces. The integration of modern equipment such as metal detectors, armoured vehicles and protective gear is intended to strengthen preparedness against potential threats.
The new funding will be implemented through the state police headquarters following government procurement rules and financial procedures. Officials said the equipment will be deployed once the procurement process is completed and installation work is finalised. The security upgrade also forms part of a broader strategy by the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure safe and smooth management of pilgrim traffic in Ayodhya, particularly during major festivals, VIP visits and large religious events.
With the Ram temple emerging as a major global pilgrimage destination, authorities are focusing on strengthening security infrastructure to ensure both devotee safety and efficient crowd management in the rapidly expanding temple town.
