Security beefed up in Mathura for Krishna Janmashtami celebrations

Mathura, Aug 24 (PTI) Security has been stepped up in and around Mathura ahead of the Krishna Janmashtami festivities during which lakhs of pilgrims would visit the city.

Heavy police force would be deployed at the two main shrines -- Lord Krishna's birth place and Dwarkadhish temple, besides 160 CCTV cameras will be installed at strategic points during the festival tomorrow, SSP Babloo Kumar said.

160 CCTV has been installed, 13 PAC companies, four CRPF companies, 1,500 police personnels and 500 Homeguards have been deployed at the two shrines, he said.

Entire area in and around Lord Krishna's Janmasthan has been divided into three zones and 14 sectors. SWAT teams and police personnels in plain clothes have also been deployed at various places, Kumar said.

Fifty-seven barriers and 16 watch towers have been put up in and around the Janmasthan, the district police chief said.

"The security personnel on duty at Lord Krishna's birth place will only be allowed to enter the shrine premises after thorough checking," he said.

Movement of vehicle, 50 meters around the Janmasthan and Dwarkadhish, temple has been banned, he said.

"Pilgrims will be allowed to enter the Janmasthan from Govindnagar gate while exit would be from the main gate," he said.

Lost and found centre and medical camp has been set up at entry and exit gates, 16 parking areas would be available for pilgrims' vehicles, the SSP added.

PTI