Delhi Traffic Police Issues Navratri Advisory for Major Temple Celebrations
The Delhi Traffic Police has issued a comprehensive traffic advisory for the upcoming Navratri festival period, warning commuters of significant disruptions across the city. According to the official notice, traffic movement is expected to be affected from March 19 to March 27, specifically between the hours of 7 am and 11 pm daily. This advisory comes in anticipation of heavy footfall at major temples, including the prominent Jhandewalan Temple and Kalkaji Mandir, during the nine-day Hindu festival.
Key Areas Expected to Face Severe Congestion
Authorities have identified several critical stretches where traffic is likely to slow down considerably due to the influx of devotees. In the vicinity of Jhandewalan Temple, commuters should prepare for delays on Rani Jhansi Road and Desh Bandhu Gupta Road, particularly from Paharganj Chowk to Kalkadas Chowk. Meanwhile, around the Kalkaji area, significant congestion is anticipated on Outer Ring Road from Chirag Delhi/Savitri Cinema flyover to Modi Mill flyover, along with Maa Anandmai Marg from Crowne Plaza to Kalkaji Temple, Captain Gaur Marg, and Aastha Kunj Road.
Traffic Diversions and Alternative Routes Recommended
To mitigate the expected bottlenecks, the traffic police will implement regulated traffic flow and potential diversions based on real-time vehicle volume. Commuters traveling towards Central Delhi and Karol Bagh are strongly advised to use Faiz Road as an alternative route. Similarly, those heading to ISBT Kashmere Gate should opt for Panchkuian Road to avoid the anticipated congestion on Rani Jhansi Road. The advisory emphasizes that these measures are crucial for maintaining smoother traffic flow during the peak festive hours.
Strict Parking Restrictions and Enforcement Actions
In a bid to prevent additional congestion, the Delhi Traffic Police has announced stringent parking restrictions around the temple areas. No illegal parking will be permitted on the main carriageways near Jhandewalan Mandir. Furthermore, parking will be strictly prohibited on Outer Ring Road between Nehru Place and Modi Mill flyover. Vehicles found improperly parked in these zones will face immediate enforcement action, including towing and fines, to ensure clear passage for traffic.
Regulations for Heavy Vehicles and Pedestrian Safety
The movement of heavy goods vehicles will be restricted around Kalkaji on a need basis, especially along Outer Ring Road, Maa Anandmai Marg, and Captain Gaur Marg during peak congestion hours. For pedestrian safety, devotees visiting Kalkaji Temple are urged to use foot overbridges to cross Outer Ring Road. Authorities have specifically cautioned against walking on central verges or jumping railings, advising everyone to stick to designated footpaths and channelisers to prevent accidents.
Commuters Advised to Plan Ahead and Use Public Transport
The Delhi Traffic Police has strongly recommended that all commuters plan their journeys in advance during the Navratri period. Following on-ground directions from traffic personnel is essential to navigate the disruptions effectively. To minimize personal inconvenience and reduce vehicular congestion, the public is encouraged to utilize public transport options wherever possible. This proactive approach is expected to help manage the increased traffic volume and ensure safer travel for everyone during the festive celebrations.
