Ayodhya/IBNS/UNI: Ahead of the first Ram Navami festival, following the consecration of Shri Ram Lalla at the newly constructed Ram Mandir here, elaborate arrangements are being made by the authorities, official sources said here on Friday.

Sources said that as per the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, both the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police are personally overseeing the meticulous preparations for the event scheduled on April 17 in Ayodhya.

The government is diligently finalising arrangements for the anticipated large influx of devotees converging in Ayodhya, particularly for sacred baths in the holy Saryu River.

Due to multiple instances of drowning in the Saryu River while bathing, the authorities have implemented extensive measures for Ram Navami.

Six more fibre motor boats will be deployed in the Saryu River to enhance safety and security measures as part of these efforts.

A large number of devotees are expected to converge upon Ayodhya from across the nation for pilgrimage, prayers, and ceremonial baths in the holy Saryu River during Chaitra Shukla Navami, also known as Ram Navami.

With such a significant event, Ayodhya is bracing for potentially massive crowds. As numerous individuals seek spiritual rejuvenation through participation, stringent security measures have been implemented to mitigate potential risks.

The fleet of fiber motor boats patrolling the river has been increased in light of this. Four boats were deployed initially during the consecration ceremony on Jan 22, and now, in anticipation of increased footfall, an additional six fiber motor boats have been enlisted.

Water police in-charge Rube Pratap Maurya said that as the crowd increases, the number of boats will also be increased. He said that stringent security measures have been implemented, urging caution among bathers to heed safety protocols.

Additionally, the administration has erected barricades in the river to prevent unauthorised access.