Bhavish Aggarwal-led Ola Cabs, which battles with Uber, has become the first ride-hailing firm to launch cab services at Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, near Ayodhya.
Notably, the company also has a dedicated pickup zone with a team of representatives available 24/7 to assist all travellers and ensure a hassle-free experience.
"Today, Ayodhya, the Ram Nagri, is one of the fastest growing cultural and tourist hubs in India, welcoming millions of tourists annually," Aggarwal wrote in a LinkedIn post while announcing the launch of services.
"We are confident that our entry in cities like Ayodhya will unlock immense opportunities of growth and further elevate the travel experience of millions of devotees and tourists," he added.
Bhavish Aggarwal's announcement on X
Agarwal also announced the launch of services on X (formerly Twitter). "Namaste Ayodhya! Thrilled to launch @olacabs operations at Ayodhya Airport! Ram Nagri."
"Ayodhya is the fastest growing cultural, tourist hub in India, welcoming millions of tourists annually. Hope to help make this spiritual journey for us Indians more convenient and accessible!" Agarwal added.
Namaste Ayodhya!
— Bhavish Aggarwal (@bhash) April 22, 2024
Thrilled to launch @olacabs operations at Ayodhya Airport!
Ram Nagri Ayodhya is the fastest growing cultural, tourist hub in India, welcoming millions of tourists annually. Hope to help make this spiritual journey for us Indians more convenient and accessible! pic.twitter.com/nNBzHC2AvG
Attracting global tourists
In late January this year, the US-based investment banking firm Jefferies predicted that the Ram Mandir could attract over 5 crore tourists annually, surpassing the footfalls of Mecca and Vatican City combined.
The influx is expected to have a substantial economic impact, contributing significantly to India's tourism sector, which previously contributed $194 billion to the GDP in FY19.
A massive $10 billion or Rs 85,000 crore investment was made to transform Ayodhya into a global religious and spiritual tourist hotspot. This includes the new airport, a revamped railway station, a 1,200-acre greenfield township, and enhanced road connectivity.