Big Decisions Taken at 14th Banke Bihari Temple Management Committee Meet

Vrindavan: The 14th meeting of the High-Powered Management Committee—constituted under the directives of the Supreme Court to ensure the better management of the Banke Bihari Temple located in the holy city of Vrindavan—was held under the chairmanship of the Committee's President, retired Justice Ashok Kumar. During the meeting, a total of 25 agenda points were discussed in detail, and the progress achieved thus far was also reviewed.

Decision to Provide Relief in 'Phool Bangla' Fees

The most significant decision taken during the meeting was to reduce the fee for the 'Phool Bangla' (floral decoration) service within the temple. Previously, during the 13th meeting, this fee had been hiked tenfold to ₹1.5 lakh; it has now been reduced to Rs 1 lakh. Additionally, offering a new facility to devotees, it was decided that those sponsoring a 'Phool Bangla' would be permitted—along with their families and the temple Goswamis—to perform *puja* (worship) at the deity's *singhasan* (throne) one hour prior to the temple's official opening time.

The Committee President acknowledged that he had previously been unaware of this specific tradition.

Decision to Install Permanent Railings for Crowd Control

Taking a significant step toward controlling the ever-increasing crowds within the temple premises, a decision was made to install permanent railings extending from the Vidyapeeth intersection to the temple's main entrance. The Committee President stated that the contract for this work would be awarded to the same company that had previously installed railings within the temple complex, and the plan would be implemented shortly.

However, when asked about the potential inconvenience this might cause to local residents, he did not provide a definitive response.

Discussion on Encroachments and Security Arrangements

During the meeting, the progress of measures taken to remove encroachments from the temple's *chabutra* (platform) was reviewed. Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the upgrading of the CCTV camera network installed within the temple complex. A proposal was put forward to equip all cameras with HD and AI technology to further bolster security arrangements and assist in effective crowd management.

Directives for Strict Action Against Sellers of Adulterated 'Peda'

Serious concerns were also raised during the meeting regarding the quality of *peda* (a traditional sweet) being sold in the vicinity of the temple. Following consultations with the Assistant Food Commissioner, the Committee issued directives for strict action to be taken against vendors selling *peda* made from adulterated *mawa* (condensed milk solids). Chairman Ashok Kumar stated that complaints have been received regarding the adulteration of *Mawa* (condensed milk solids) being brought in from the Rajasthan border, which could be detrimental to health.

Emphasis on Improving E-Rickshaw Management

The meeting also addressed the traffic congestion and accidents resulting from the unregulated operation of e-rickshaws in Vrindavan. The committee proposed that designated routes be established for e-rickshaws and that their numbers be capped. Furthermore, directives were issued to take strict action against overloading, with the aim of providing relief to both local residents and devotees.

Focus on Enhancing Overall Arrangements

All 25 agenda points presented during the meeting were discussed in detail, with a strong emphasis placed on further improving the temple's operational arrangements. The committee clarified that continuous corrective measures would continue to be implemented in the future, prioritizing the convenience, safety, and organizational management of the devotees.