Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off a special train bound for Ayodhya from Platform 07 of Raipur Railway Station at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, under the Shri Ramlalla Darshan Yojana. The train, carrying 850 Shri Ram devotees from all 05 districts of Raipur division, departed amidst spirited chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’.

Sai said, “This is a momentous occasion as the people of Chhattisgarh get on a journey to seek the blessings of Shri Ramlalla. Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised the commencement of the Shri Ramlalla Darshan Yojana after our government's formation. Today marks the fulfillment of that pledge as the first train departs from Chhattisgarh to Ayodhya.”

In the future, trains will also operate from Bilaspur and Raigarh to Ayodhya under the scheme. In addition to Ayodhya, tours to other religious sites will also be organized. Chhattisgarh is the first state in the country to facilitate the Darshan of Shri Ramlalla at government expense. In March, the entire cabinet will visit Ayodhya for Ramlalla's Darshan, he said.

The 12-coach train can accommodate nearly 850 devotees from Chhattisgarh. The comprehensive package includes travel arrangements from Chhattisgarh to Ayodhya, accommodation, temple visits, breakfast, and meals. In addition, the train will be facilitated with tour escorts, security personnel, and a team of doctors to ensure a smooth and safe journey for the pilgrims.