Mathura decked up for Janmashtami

MATHURA: Lord Krishna's birthplace Mathura is all decked up and teeming with devotees to celebrate the Janmashtami festival on Wednesday.

The hustle and bustle in markets and temples have started with devotees thronging the holy city, which adorns a festive look.

Hotels and dharamshalas are all packed with devotees from across the country and abroad.

Special security arrangement has been made at two shrines here considered very sacred by devotees.

Eight company of PAC had been deployed to ensure security for pilgrims.

Briefing about the security arrangements, District Magistrate Vishal Chauhan said, "Total area has been divided into three zones and thirteen sectors with a gazetted officer in charge of every zone and sector.

"While areas of both the shrines have been put under red zone, adjacent colonies have been placed under yellow zone. Rest area has been placed under green zone," Chauhan said.

Informing further about the measures taken, he said, "47 barriers, 12 parking points and seven points for keeping the article of the pilgrims (makeshift clock room) have been set up."

Police in plain cloths would also be deployed at strategic points, he added.