2026.02.06 (Vrindavan Today News): A stakeholder workshop on policy development to transform Mathura Vrindavan into a Low Emission Zone was successfully held chaired by District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh (IAS) and co – chaired by Senior Superintendent of Police Shlok Kumar (IPS).
Addressing the workshop, District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh said that green mobility will change the face of Braj, strengthen the traffic system, and significantly improve air quality. He emphasized that Mathura Vrindavan will be developed as an important heritage and pilgrimage city, with special focus on clean transportation and environmental sustainability.
During the workshop, various aspects related to improving air quality and ensuring a robust traffic management system were discussed. The District Magistrate stressed the need to promote electric vehicles by establishing a large number of public charging stations. He said that adequate charging infrastructure will encourage tourists, pilgrims, and visitors to travel to Mathura conveniently and confidently using electric vehicles, leading to increased adoption of clean mobility.
He further stated that reducing vehicular pollution in sensitive areas requires a structured and well planned approach. To combat rising air pollution, adopting a sustainable strategy through clean mobility solutions and Low Emission Zones is crucial. The administration, he said, is fully committed to providing millions of pilgrims visiting Mathura Vrindavan with smooth traffic management and cleaner air.
Speaking on the introduction of Green Mobility Zones, the District Magistrate described the initiative as not merely a traffic reform, but a major step towards restoring the spiritual calm and environmental sanctity of Braj.
The high level workshop, organized by Raahgiri Foundation under the Mathura Vrindavan Municipal Corporation at the Collectorate auditorium, witnessed detailed discussions on multiple measures to reduce air pollution. The District Magistrate noted that pilgrims visit the holy city seeking peace and devotion, but congestion and pollution often affect their experience. The Green Mobility Zone, he said, will help change this situation.
Officials from the district administration, municipal corporation, police department, and urban transport experts deliberated on a comprehensive action plan to make Mathura Vrindavan cleaner, more convenient, and free from traffic congestion. Senior Superintendent of Police Shlok Kumar stated that effective traffic management and strict monitoring would ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Municipal Commissioner Jag Pravesh informed that a target has been set to achieve 50 percent electric vehicle usage by the year 2030. To meet this goal, infrastructure such as charging stations, electric buses, and an improved public transport system will be developed.
Experts from the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and ICCT highlighted that in large cities, more than 50 percent of air pollution is caused by vehicles. Keeping this in view, preparations are underway to implement a Low Emission Zone in Mathura Vrindavan, which will restrict the entry of highly polluting vehicles. They pointed out that unorganized parking and excessive use of private vehicles around temples and ghats currently cause significant inconvenience to pilgrims.
Under the proposed plan, parking facilities will be developed outside the city, from where electric rickshaws and dedicated religious bus services will operate to temples and hotels. This will particularly benefit elderly pilgrims, women, and families with children. As part of the Green Mobility Zone initiative, footpaths will be made encroachment free, shaded, and safe for pedestrians.
