Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Thursday, announced the construction of a new bridge over Mandakini river in Chitrakoot.

The chief minister, who was on a one-day visit to the city, said the new bridge would facilitate smoother transportation and bolster regional development. He reviewed the region’s development initiatives and law and order situation in a meeting with public representatives and officials, reiterating the government’s commitment to physical and spiritual development of Chitrakoot.

During the visit, Chief Minister Yogi offered prayers at the Shri Maharajadhiraj Matagjendra Nath Shiva temple and performed the aarti of the Maa Mandakini river at Ram ghat, seeking prosperity and well-being for the people of Uttar Pradesh. He also participated in the daily aarti of Maa Mandakini, performed by five priests.

In his address, the chief minister expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to visit and offer prayers at the holy site where Lord Ram is believed to have appeared before saint Tulsidas.

Reflecting on its rich history, the chief minister recalled that Lord Ram spent a significant portion of his exile in Chitrakoot and that the region has been a sanctuary for sages and saints who pursued deep spiritual practices.

He further emphasised that it is a privilege for the double-engine government to contribute to the development of this revered pilgrimage site under the blessings of the saints.

Chief Minister Yogi emphasised the state government’s dedication to preserving the rich historical and mythological heritage of Chitrakoot. He highlighted the ongoing beautification of Ram ghat and efforts to ensure the uninterrupted flow and pristine beauty of the Maa Mandakini river, for which funds have already been allocated.

Chief Minister Yogi also conducted a review of various developmental projects in the region, underscoring the government’s holistic approach to the progress of Chitrakoot.

The chief minister announced that the airport in Chitrakoot is now operational and is being extended to accommodate larger aircraft from cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi and Ayodhya.

He also remarked that just as Lord Ram is believed to have arrived in the Pushpak Viman, this development will soon enable people from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh to access Chitrakoot by air, marking a significant milestone after thousands of years.

While discussing development initiatives, the chief minister highlighted progress in land acquisition for the Bundelkhand Link Expressway, which will enhance connectivity and regional growth. He also emphasised the ongoing efforts to enhance and secure significant sites such as the holy birthplace of Maharishi Valmiki in Lalapur and the birthplace of saint Tulsidas.

Chief Minister Yogi further announced that new courses would soon be introduced at Jagadguru Rambhadracharya University, which was nationalised by the government last year. These courses will provide higher education opportunities not only for Divyang students but also for other children.

The chief minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving Chitrakoot’s connectivity and accessibility. He also highlighted the prioritisation of road infrastructure in the area and reiterated plans to enhance eco-tourism at the Ranipur Tiger Reserve, along with advancing key projects such as the Defence Manufacturing Corridor, Industrial Corridor and Kamta Giri Parikrama.

On this occasion, a large number of saints, public representatives and officials, including state’s Jal Jeevan Minister Swatantradev Singh, were present.