There is good news for devotees visiting Ayodhya. The waves of the Sarayu River, which have moved far from the ancient and Ramayana-era ghats, may soon return closer to the city’s riverfront. The government has accelerated work on the Sarayu Barrage Project to maintain a stable water level at the paved ghats and the famous Ram Ki Paidi throughout the year.
At present, many pilgrims face difficulties while taking a holy dip in the Sarayu. During several months of the year, the river shifts far away from the ghats. Devotees often walk long distances on hot sand to reach the water. The new barrage aims to solve this problem and ensure easier access to the river.
Nitin Gadkari Announced the Project
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced the construction of the Sarayu Barrage during his visit to Ayodhya. Since then, officials have treated it as one of the most important water projects for the temple town.
The project seeks to restore the connection between Ayodhya’s historic ghats and the Sarayu River. Officials believe it will improve the experience for millions of pilgrims who visit the city every year.
Key Features of the Sarayu Barrage
Under the proposed plan, authorities will build the barrage between the old bridge on the Ayodhya-New Ghat-Gonda route and the nearby railway bridge.
The structure will measure around 820 metres in length, 50 metres in width, and 23 metres in height. Engineers plan to install 45 gates to regulate the flow of water. The project will cover a water storage area of nearly 87,220 square metres. This stretch will extend from parts of the Ghaghara River near the Lakhimpur and Bahraich border to Ayodhya.
Officials also plan to build a two-lane road around the barrage. Light vehicles will be able to move easily on this route, making monitoring and maintenance more efficient.
Cost Likely to Rise, Fresh DPR on the Way
Officials first prepared the Detailed Project Report (DPR) nearly seven years ago. At that time, they estimated the cost of the project at ₹2,921 crore. However, rising construction expenses may increase the final cost.
According to D.C. Verma, Superintending Engineer of the Research and Planning Unit of the Irrigation Department in Basti, authorities will now prepare a revised DPR before starting the project.
Awaiting Final Environmental Clearance
Most government departments have already cleared the project. Authorities have secured seven out of eight required No Objection Certificates (NOCs), including approvals from the Railways, Forest Department, and model study agencies.
The project now awaits final clearance from the Union Environment Ministry. Officials completed public hearings with farmers in Gonda and Basti in 2025. Once the ministry grants approval, authorities will send the proposal to the Central Water Commission and the Jal Shakti Ministry for final clearance.
Farmers Also Stand to Benefit
The Sarayu Barrage will not only help pilgrims in Ayodhya but also support farmers in nearby districts. The project will provide a year-round water supply to the Sarayu Pump Canal in Basti.
At present, farmers receive enough water mainly during the kharif season. After the barrage becomes operational, they will get water during both kharif and rabi seasons. Officials expect the project to improve irrigation across nearly 20,000 hectares of farmland, helping farmers increase crop output and income.
