Mathura is under a सुरक्षा घेरा as it prepares for Janmashtami celebrations, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath scheduled to visit. The city is expecting an influx of devotees for Shri Krishna Janmashtami, and security measures have been heightened to ensure their safety and maintain law and order.
To manage the expected crowds, Mathura has been divided into zones and sectors, with over 5,000 police officers and personnel deployed. The inner area of the Janmasthan temple has been designated a red zone, with additional police forces guarding the premises. The surrounding yellow and green zones are being patrolled by plainclothes officers, including women.
Entry of heavy vehicles into Mathura has been banned, and vehicle movement is restricted on routes leading to the Shri Krishna Janmasthan temple due to the heavy foot traffic. Barricades have been erected at several points, where police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) teams are rigorously screening visitors.
To prevent any untoward incidents, social media activity is being closely monitored. Entry to the temple is through the northern gate (Govind Nagar side), with the main gate used for exit. Mobile phones, key rings, wristwatches, and electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside the temple. Devotees have been advised not to carry items like shoes, bags, matches, lighters, or umbrellas and to leave them at their accommodations.
This year marks the 5252nd birth anniversary of Lord Krishna. The Krishna Mahotsav began with a procession from the Shri Krishna Janmasthan temple, featuring folk artists.
CM Adityanath is expected to participate in the Janmashtami celebrations. He will offer prayers at Sri Krishna Janmasthan and inaugurate development projects. The Chief Minister will also inaugurate projects and schemes worth Rs 583 crore, including the ropeway in Barsana and Yamuna cruise.
In an effort to promote sustainability, Mathura will celebrate a plastic-free Janmashtami. Devotees, shopkeepers, and locals are urged to avoid polythene and plastic items. Authorities have launched an awareness drive and cleared encroachments to enhance the experience for devotees.
The administration expects visitor numbers to exceed last year's 4.2 million, possibly reaching over five million. Preparations and security arrangements have been made at pilgrimage centers, including Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Gokul, Nandgaon, Govardhan, and Mahavan. At the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex, CCTV cameras have been installed, and AI-enabled drone cameras will be deployed for surveillance.
To assist pilgrims, police have launched a website, brajdham.co.in, providing information on temples, routes, restrictions, and guidelines. Railways have extended some trains to Mathura to facilitate devotees' arrival.
