2024.10.03 (Vrindavan Today News): The Master Plan set by the Mathura-Vrindavan Development Authority has been violated by builders and colonizers, leading to significant unauthorized developments. Land assigned for building ashrams and mathas (monastic centers) have seen the rise of commercial and residential establishments, including large hotels and multi-story buildings. This unchecked development not only disrupts the religious sanctity of the area but also leads to substantial revenue losses for the government.
In Mathura, Vrindavan, and Govardhan, construction work is progressing rapidly without necessary land-use conversions. Vrindavan, in particular, has seen an alarming increase in commercial and residential projects on land originally allocated for religious and educational institutions. The Chhatikara-Vrindavan stretch, which is designated for monastic land use, has witnessed extensive illegal constructions, with large areas earmarked for ashrams and mathas transformed into commercial establishments.
Authorities reportedly approved ashram plans for certain plots, only for these to be converted into hotels shortly thereafter. Despite awareness of these violations, officials remain silent, allowing more than 200 unauthorized residential and commercial structures to flourish between Chhatikara and Chaitanya Vihar, with many more projects underway.
There are established regulations for changing land use, which include public notification and the opportunity for public objections. Final approval is required from the Mathura-Vrindavan Development Authority’s board. Yet, within the last two years, the board has green-lit over a dozen such proposals, facilitating the conversion of designated religious land to commercial purposes.
The situation drew public attention when hundreds of trees were reportedly felled at the Dalmia Farmhouse along the Chhatikara-Vrindavan Road. This incident spurred the Mathura-Vrindavan Development Authority to conduct a survey assessing land-use violations on ashram and matha lands. The survey, however, remains incomplete, and no conclusive report has been submitted. Nonetheless, notice will be issued to those responsible for unauthorized developments following the survey’s completion.
S.B. Singh, Vice Chairman of the Mathura-Vrindavan Development Authority, has stated that a comprehensive review is underway and that necessary steps will be taken to address the unauthorized structures. This escalating encroachment upon sacred land underscores the urgent need for proactive governance to preserve the spiritual and cultural integrity of Vrindavan, a place of profound historical and devotional significance for millions worldwide.
