2025.04.15 (Vrindavan Today News): The Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad (UPBTVP) has initiated an ambitious environmental rejuvenation project in the sacred hills of Barsana — the divine abode of Shri Radha Rani. The initiative, now underway at the Rankoli Hill, aims to transform the otherwise barren terrain into a vibrant ecological and cultural haven, reminiscent of its ancient glory.
Preserving the hills of Braj is a significant move to restore the ecological and spiritual grandeur of Braj Bhoomi. Rankoli Hill, sprawling across 98 hectares, marks the beginning of this large-scale effort. With the rising influx of pilgrims to Barsana — following the success of the Barsana Ropeway — the state government has recognized the need to enhance the region’s aesthetic and ecological appeal. Consequently, the Rankoli Hill Restoration Project has received official approval as one of the 10 government-sanctioned schemes under the 2024–25 state development plan, collectively worth ₹206 crore.
A Revival of Ancient Forests: 36 Sacred Groves to Be Reinstated
The UP Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad (UPBTVP), in coordination with the Forest Department, is embarking on the revival of 36 religiously significant groves (vanas) across Mathura district. This effort involves the removal of invasive species such as keekar and babool, to be replaced by native flora mentioned in Krishna-era texts. The Parishad has secured necessary permissions from the Supreme Court to proceed with these ecological interventions.
Following Rankoli, the adjoining Sakhigiri and Dhawala Hills — situated near the Rajasthan border — are also slated for beautification and reforestation. These areas, currently stripped of greenery, will undergo comprehensive ecological restoration, including plantation drives, cultural landscaping, and water harvesting infrastructure.
The Rankoli project itself is backed by a sanctioned budget of ₹2.11 crore, out of which ₹1.30 crore has already been released. According to Shyam Bahadur Singh, CEO of the UPBTVP, an experienced environmental organization is collaborating on the technical execution of the project. In addition to wire-fencing the hill to prevent encroachments and grazing, the plan also includes soil conservation, afforestation with indigenous species, and long-term sustainability measures.
Approved Projects Under UPBTVP in 2024–25 :
1. Façade enhancement and improved signage along the Govardhan Parikrama Marg
2. Development and rejuvenation of ghats along the Yamuna River
3. Establishment of a Shilpgram (artisan village), wayside amenities, and public facilities in Jachauda
4. Installation of CCTV cameras, PA systems, and Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS) along the remaining stretch of Vrindavan Parikrama Marg
5. Introduction of cruise services at prominent Yamuna ghats: Akroor, Devaraha, Kesi, Mat Road, and Jugal Kishore
6. Development of a Tourist Facilitation Center (TFC) with multi-level car parking in Vrindavan
7. Fencing and eco-restoration of Rangkoli Hill in Barsana
8. Expansion of TFCs in Barsana and Vrindavan
9. Restoration of ancient forest sites (vanas) in the district
10. Enhanced accommodation facilities for pilgrims visiting Braj
Ensuring Affordable Hospitality for Pilgrims
In line with the state government’s vision, the UPBTVP is also establishing Tourist Facilitation Centers (TFCs) at key pilgrimage destinations, including Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Gokul. These centers offer well-maintained accommodation and pure vegetarian meals at highly subsidized rates, managed by Ujjwal Braj Sanstha — a local institution with a longstanding reputation for serving pilgrims.
The holistic development framework — combining environmental sustainability with heritage preservation and pilgrim comfort — aims to elevate the Braj region as a premier spiritual-ecological destination for both national and international visitors.
The UPBTVP initiative not only reaffirms the government’s commitment to reviving Braj’s sacred ecology but also marks a convergence of tradition and modern planning in service of faith, heritage, and nature.
