District Magistrate CP Singh has imposed Section 163 (earlier Section 144) of the Indian Civil Defence Code across Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, from December 12 to February 8, with immediate effect, in view of upcoming festivals and competitive examinations.
Why Is Section 163 Imposed?
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According to the District Magistrate, the measure has been implemented to ensure law and order during festivals such as Christmas, New Year, Makar Sankranti, Republic Day, and Shab-e-Barat. Under the order, gatherings of five or more people without prior permission, taking out processions, and carrying any kind of weapons are strictly prohibited.
In addition, the operation of photocopy machines and the use of loudspeakers are banned within a 200-metre radius of examination centres during the examination period. The administration has also warned of strict action against individuals spreading rumours through social media or other platforms.
In a separate development early The toll on the 38-kilometre stretch of the Mathura-Bareilly Highway has increased nearly two-and-a-half times over the past six months, significantly affecting daily commuters. The round-trip toll for cars and light vehicles, which stood at Rs 100 in May, has now risen sharply, drawing concern from regular users of the route.
Following the completion of construction up to the Mathura Refinery, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has revised the toll rates on the highway. As per reports, the toll has been fixed at Rs 160 for a one-way trip and Rs 245 for a round trip for cars and light vehicles. While the new rates have already come into effect, commuters say the steep hike has increased their travel expenses considerably.
The 66-kilometre Mathura-Bareilly Highway was completed in two phases. The first phase, from Vahanpur village to Koyal village, was opened to the public in May 2025 with an initial toll of Rs 60 for a one-way journey and Rs 40 for the return trip. The second phase included the construction of an overbridge over the Mathura-Kasganj railway line near Koyal village and the extension of the highway via the Raya bypass to the Mathura Refinery.
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Managed by Shiva Corporation, the highway’s finalised toll rates have triggered dissatisfaction among local residents and frequent commuters, who term the charges financially burdensome.