As India gears up to welcome 2025, major metropolitan cities are implementing extensive traffic restrictions and route diversions to manage the surge in vehicles and ensure public safety during New Year's Eve celebrations. Authorities have announced a series of measures, including curbs on heavy vehicles, designated no-entry zones, and special parking arrangements, to prevent congestion and accidents on the night of December 31.
Delhi Implements Stringent Night Curbs
The Delhi Traffic Police has rolled out a detailed plan to regulate movement in key celebration hubs. From 8 PM on December 31 until 6 AM on January 1, traffic will be heavily regulated in the Connaught Place area. Specific roads like Barakhamba Road, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, and parts of Sansad Marg will see diversions. Heavy goods vehicles will be barred from entering the city from 7 PM on the 31st until noon on January 1st. Special attention is being given to areas like Khan Market, Hauz Khas Village, and the Delhi-NCR borders to manage the expected crowds.
Mumbai and Bengaluru Focus on Nightlife Hubs
In Mumbai, the traffic police have identified several sensitive zones. Restrictions will be in place around Marine Drive, Bandra Bandstand, Carter Road, and popular nightlife areas in Lower Parel and Andheri. Parking will be strictly prohibited on certain stretches, and nakabandis (checkpoints) will be intensified to deter drunk driving. Similarly, Bengaluru police will clamp down on MG Road, Brigade Road, Indiranagar, and Koramangala. Vehicle entry will be restricted in these zones after a certain time, and the public is advised to use metro services, which are likely to run extended hours.
Advisories for Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Chennai
Other major cities are following suit with their own advisories. Kolkata Traffic Police will monitor Park Street, the Waterfront area, and Sector V in Salt Lake. Hyderabad's restrictions will center around Banjara Hills, Jubilee Hills, and the city's popular pubs. Chennai has advised caution and possible diversions near the Marina Beach, East Coast Road (ECR), and T Nagar. Common across all cities is a strong warning against drunk driving, with police promising zero tolerance and special drives to prosecute offenders.
Commuters are urged to plan their routes in advance, use public transportation wherever possible, and stay updated through official police social media handles for real-time traffic updates. The overarching message from all police departments is to celebrate responsibly and prioritize safety on the roads to ensure the new year begins on a positive and secure note for everyone.
