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Barsana gets a grand makeover ahead of Shri Radha Ashtami celebrations with lakhs of devotees expected (Image: Dynamite News)
Mathura/Barsana: The Uttar Pradesh government has made extensive preparations for Shri Radha Ashtami celebrations in Barsana, with around 25 lakh devotees expected to visit the famous Shri Ladli Ji Temple on September 19, 2026.
The birth anniversary of Radha Rani will be celebrated with grandeur, including a special Abhishek ceremony and various cultural programmes. The district administration has prepared detailed plans for security, traffic management, cleanliness and facilities for pilgrims.
To manage the expected crowd, the entire festival area has been divided into seven zones and 20 sectors. Around 3,000 police personnel will be deployed for security arrangements, including senior police officers, inspectors, sub-inspectors, women police personnel and PAC units.
The administration will monitor the fair area through 155 CCTV cameras and drone surveillance. Two Lost and Found centres and six watchtowers have also been established to help devotees.
To ensure smooth movement of visitors, traffic arrangements have been strengthened around Barsana. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) will operate 160 special buses, while 40 additional buses will remain available as reserve. Two drivers have been assigned for each bus to ensure uninterrupted service. A temporary bus stand has been prepared, along with 38 holding areas, 50 parking sites, 88 barriers, 14 barricading points and seven shoe-storage facilities.
The administration has made special arrangements for healthcare during the festival. The Health Department will set up 12 medical camps inside the fair area. Bike ambulances, regular ambulance services and anti-venom supplies will also be available.
Officials have announced that the Barsana fair will be made plastic-free. Community kitchen organisers have been instructed to install dustbins and ensure regular waste collection.
Ahead of Radha Ashtami, Barsana has been transformed with decorative lighting, wall paintings and fabric-based decorations. The Mathura-Vrindavan Development Authority has worked on improving the visual appeal of the town, while authorities have also ensured pothole-free roads and uninterrupted electricity supply. The Food Safety Department is conducting inspection drives to prevent the sale of adulterated food items during the festival.
Mathura District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh said the administration’s priority is to ensure that devotees visiting Barsana receive all necessary facilities and have a smooth darshan experience.
He added that special arrangements have also been made for local residents so they can participate in the celebrations without facing difficulties due to heavy crowds. Special passes have been issued to residents of Barsana to help them visit Shriji Temple conveniently during Shri Radha Ashtami.
