3-day meeting of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Construction Committee begins in Ayodhya

A three-day meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Construction Committee began in Ayodhya on Sunday, with committee chairman Nripendra Misra inspecting ongoing projects as the temple complex moves into the next phase of construction, security and beautification works.

Misra inspected the memorial pillar, whose construction is nearing completion, and reviewed beautification work at the site of the old temporary temple, according to Trust sources. He later held discussions with officials and representatives associated with construction and related projects at the auditorium of the Pilgrim Facilitation Centre. The meetings are expected to take stock of completed and pending works, examine technical issues and finalise priorities for the projects still under execution.

Four-km security wall under review

The committee is scheduled to hold detailed meetings with construction agencies on September 13 and 14, with the progress of the temple and associated infrastructure projects among the principal items on the agenda. The proposed construction of an outer security wall extending approximately four kilometres around the temple complex is also expected to figure prominently in the deliberations. The project is part of the larger effort to strengthen security infrastructure around the complex while managing the movement of the large number of devotees visiting the shrine.

The committee's deliberations will shift to the Ram Katha Museum on September 15, when retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, recently appointed the first chief executive officer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, is expected to participate for the first time. Mishra, 62, is scheduled to return to Ayodhya from New Delhi that day and hold his first formal meeting with Nripendra Misra. He is expected to receive a detailed briefing on the administration of the temple, ongoing construction, associated projects and works planned for the coming period.

First CEO to join temple administration

The appointment of a full-time CEO marks an administrative restructuring of the Trust as its responsibilities increasingly extend beyond temple construction to the long-term management of the sprawling complex, security, pilgrim facilities and day-to-day operations. Arrangements for Mishra's residence are also nearing completion, with Om Bhawan, situated near Rampath to the south of the Jagadguru Shankaracharya entrance, being prepared for him.

The administrative changes come alongside revisions to worship and temple procedures. Since Janmashtami, changes have been introduced in the process of conducting aarti, while the religious committee has prescribed attire for priests. The carrying of mobile phones and outside material into the sanctum sanctorum has also been prohibited as part of tighter regulations governing activities inside the temple.

Focus shifts to finishing works

With major phases of the Ram temple project already completed, the Construction Committee's latest review is increasingly focused on associated infrastructure, beautification, security and the remaining works across the complex. The near-completion of the memorial pillar and work around the old temporary temple form part of this broader effort to develop the precinct beyond the main shrine.

The three-day deliberations are expected to provide a clearer timetable for the pending projects, including the outer security wall, while Mishra's participation on the final day will mark the beginning of a new administrative arrangement for the Trust. His appointment is expected to strengthen coordination between temple administration, construction agencies and the various bodies responsible for managing the complex.