Ayodhya, Mar 12: President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya on March 19, coinciding with the first day of the Hindu New Year, Ayodhya District Magistrate Nikhil Tikaram Funde announced on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters, DM Funde said preparations for the presidential visit are in full swing, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath arriving in Ayodhya on Thursday to review arrangements. “The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is organising the event. The Commissioner, ADG, and DIG held meetings with officials from all departments. Everyone has received instructions and is working accordingly. The programme on the 19th will be organised very well,” he said.

To ensure smooth darshan for devotees, the temple authorities will not issue any VVIP or special passes. “Darshan will begin an hour earlier and continue until late at night. It will be briefly paused only during the President and dignitaries’ visit for puja. The rest of the rituals will continue uninterrupted,” Funde added.

Addressing concerns regarding LPG availability, the DM dismissed reports of shortages in domestic cylinders. “There is no shortage of domestic gas cylinders in the district,” he clarified.

The shortage of commercial LPG cylinders reportedly stems from the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Following this, the Centre invoked the Essential Commodities Act to prioritise domestic consumption. The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas stated that domestic LPG production has increased by about 25 percent and is being directed entirely towards household consumers. Additionally, the Home Affairs Ministry has strengthened a round-the-clock control room to monitor the situation.