CM's advisor holds discussions with stakeholders

THE APEX COURT ALSO ALLOWED THE STATE GOVERNMENT TO USE TEMPLE FUNDS TO PURCHASE FIVE-ACRE LAND FOR THE CORRIDOR

- HT Correspondent

AGRA: Seeking a consensus on the proposed Banke Bihari Corridor project, Awanish Kumar Awasthi, advisor to the chief minister, held meetings with local residents, traders and Goswamis (priests) in Vrindavan on Friday.

The Goswamis from the Banke Bihari Temple have been vocal in opposing the corridor plan.

"It was a constructive discussion that we had with all, including locals and traders, and separately with Goswamis. They openly placed their viewpoint. We communicated that the state government was here to ensure development of the area and ensure better facilities for devotees coming to have darshan at the Banke Bihari Temple," Awasthi said after the discussions.

While a section of traders and residents voiced concerns about the plan, they were assured a patient hearing by Awasthi after the first round of discussions though, at one stage, some of them appeared to be on the brink of a boycott but returned for the talks.