Vrindavan Today | Bureau Report
12th August, 2026, Mathura:The Mathura district administration has banned the manufacture, sale, storage and use of banned single use plastic across Mathura Vrindavan, ahead of the major festive season that is expected to bring lakhs of pilgrims and visitors to the region.
District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh has directed the authorities to intensify surveillance and enforcement in temple areas, major markets, fairgrounds and other crowded locations. Violators will face fines and other legal action under the applicable provisions.
The administration has specifically called for strict compliance with the ban on plastic carry bags below 120 microns, along with other identified single use plastic items. These include plastic sticks used in ear buds and balloons, plastic flags, candy and ice cream sticks, certain polystyrene decoration materials, and plastic plates, cups, glasses, forks, spoons, knives and trays.
Plastic or PVC banners and stickers below 100 microns are also covered by the restrictions.
The move comes ahead of Independence Day, Raksha Bandhan, Shri Krishna Janmashtami and Diwali, when Mathura Vrindavan witnesses a substantial increase in pilgrim footfall. Major religious centres including Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, Banke Bihari Temple and Dwarkadhish Temple, along with markets, fairgrounds and public spaces, are expected to experience heavy crowds.
The administration has also asked temple management committees, prasad and milk vendors, fruit and vegetable sellers, hotels, restaurants and street vendors to replace prohibited plastic with environmentally friendly alternatives such as cloth, jute and paper.
Warning notices and public information displays are to be installed at major entry points, bus stands, railway stations and parking areas to make pilgrims and visitors aware of the restrictions.
The administration has pointed out that the unchecked use of plastic has become a serious challenge for the environment, sanitation and public health in the region. Plastic waste frequently chokes drains and obstructs the city’s drainage system, while its disposal also threatens the cleanliness of the Yamuna and other water bodies.
The district administration has therefore directed that a public notice be issued urging people to completely refrain from the manufacture, sale and use of banned plastic items.
For Mathura Vrindavan, the measure comes at a crucial time. With the festive season bringing unprecedented crowds to the Braj region, effective enforcement combined with responsible behaviour by pilgrims, traders and local residents will be essential to keep the sacred landscape clean and protect the Yamuna from further plastic pollution.
