Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad and the Department of Religious Affairs (Dharmarth Vibhag) seal the development roadmap for 2025-26.
Mathura: In a massive boost to religious tourism infrastructure, a comprehensive plan worth ₹220 Crore has been finalized to develop Mathura and Vrindavan into world-class tourism hubs. The proposal was discussed and approved during a high-level meeting held on Wednesday, chaired by Cabinet Minister for Sugarcane Development, Chaudhary Laxmi Narayan.
Two Departments, One Vision
The development initiative is a joint effort between two key bodies. Out of the total proposed budget:
- ₹120 Crore of work has been proposed under the Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad.
- ₹100 Crore of projects have been included under the Dharmarth Vibhag (Department of Religious Affairs).
CEO Shyam Bahadur Singh confirmed that the consensus was reached on works worth ₹220 Crore, and the proposal will soon be sent to the state government for final approval.
Key Projects & Allocation Highlights
The meeting outlined several specific high-impact projects aimed at improving the devotee experience and restoring the ecological balance of the region:
- Tourist Facilitation Centres (TFC): A significant ₹45 Crore has been allocated for TFCs in Govardhan and Kokilavan to manage tourist footfall better.
- Beautification of Parikrama Marg: ₹24 Crore will be spent on Facade Lighting along the Mathura-Vrindavan Parikrama route to enhance its spiritual ambience at night.
- Eco-Restoration: In a bid to revive the ancient greenery of Braj, ₹12 Crore is proposed for the Eco-Restoration of 36 Ancient Forests (Prachin Vans).
- Ghat Development: Construction of Akrur Ghat is budgeted at ₹8 Crore, along with the development of the Cheer Ghat stopover point at ₹7 Crore.
Other Significant Developments
The plan also covers the development of the Khech Dauji Temple area. Under the Dharmarth Vibhag, specific focus is being given to:
- Development of Narayan Sarovar and Nandgaon Mandir Parikrama.
- Beautification of the Van Khandi Mahadev area and Ashwathama Van Parikrama.
- Infrastructure upgrades at Swami Baba Mandir (Vanshi Vat Taroli), Madhurikund, Shital Kund (Kotvan), and the approach road to Nari Semri Mandir.
Collaborative Planning
The meeting saw the presence of key officials including Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad Vice President Shailjakant Mishra, District Magistrate CP Singh, MLC Thakur Om Prakash Singh, and other public representatives. The Cabinet Minister invited written suggestions from MLAs to ensure the plan meets regional requirements before the final submission.
Impact on Real Estate & Economy
This massive infusion of funds into infrastructure—specifically focusing on approach roads, lighting, and tourist centers—is expected to further drive the demand for hospitality and residential real estate in the region. As Mathura-Vrindavan evolves from a seasonal pilgrimage spot to a year-round tourism hub, property values in connected areas are likely to see sustained appreciation.