The Ahmedabad City Police has announced significant traffic restrictions and diversions for this Saturday, December 7, to facilitate a major religious gathering. The event, organized by BAPS, marks the 75th year of Pramukhswami Maharaj's leadership and is expected to attract a massive crowd of devotees, including VIPs and VVIPs, to the Sabarmati Riverfront (West) Event Centre.
Road Closures and Traffic Restrictions
In an official order issued by Police Commissioner G S Malik on Thursday, a key stretch of the western riverfront road will be completely shut down. The closure affects the section from the Vadaj crematorium cut to Ambedkar Bridge. These restrictions will be enforced from noon on December 7 and will remain in effect until the conclusion of the event.
The police have made it clear that the order applies to all general vehicles. However, exemptions have been granted for several categories to ensure smooth operations and emergency services. The exempted vehicles include:
- Official vehicles associated with the event management.
- Goods carriers and passenger vehicles with prior permissions.
- Fire brigade and ambulance services.
- Government vehicles on official duty.
- Private vehicles dealing with genuine medical emergencies.
Detailed Alternate Route for Commuters
To manage the expected disruption, the traffic police have charted a detailed alternate route. Motorists who normally use the closed riverfront stretch will need to follow this diversion:
Commuters are advised to travel via Vadaj Circle, Usmanpura crossroads, Income-Tax overbridge, Bata showroom crossroads, Delight crossroads, and Town Hall crossroads to finally reach Anjali crossroads. This route is designed to bypass the event zone and maintain traffic flow in other parts of the city.
Legal Implications and Advisory
The police notification carries a stern warning for violators. Those found disobeying the traffic order will face legal action under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Gujarat Police Act. Authorities are urging citizens to plan their travel in advance, considering the expected congestion and the specified diversions.
Residents and visitors heading towards the Sabarmati Riverfront or areas near the event centre on Saturday afternoon are particularly advised to check the route map and allow for extra travel time. The large gathering for this significant religious celebration necessitates these measures to ensure public safety and order.
