Ranchi Announces Major Traffic Restrictions for Dual Festivals
In preparation for the significant religious gatherings expected this Saturday, the Ranchi traffic police have issued a comprehensive notice detailing extensive road closures and traffic diversions across the city. The measures are being implemented to accommodate both the Eid al-Fitr festivities and the traditional Sarhul processions, which are anticipated to draw large crowds to various locations.
Eid-Related Traffic Changes
For the Eid celebrations, specific roads will be closed to ensure smooth and safe access to prayer venues. The Harmu by-pass road will be completely shut down from Kishoreganj Chowk to Ratu Road Chowk, starting at 6:00 AM and continuing until the conclusion of the namaaz prayers. Additionally, several other critical routes will be inaccessible during this period.
These include the road segments between Ambedkar Chowk and Rajendra Chowk, the area from Ratan PP to Gupta Bhandar on the main road, the stretch from Plaza Chowk to Lalpur Chowk, and the section from Saheed Chowk to Gandhi Chowk in Upper Bazaar. To manage the flow, traffic police have outlined alternative routes for commuters.
Vehicles originating from Doranda will be redirected from Sujata Chowk, proceeding via Club Road and Munda Chowk to reach their destinations. Conversely, traffic moving from Sujata Chowk towards Doranda will be rerouted through Big Bazaar and Kadru bridge.
Sarhul Festival Traffic Regulations
In conjunction with the Eid restrictions, the Sarhul festival will also impose its own set of traffic controls. Heavy vehicles will be prohibited from entering the city limits from 6:00 AM on Saturday until 1:30 AM the following day. Furthermore, general vehicle movement will be barred on several key roads to facilitate the processions.
These restricted routes encompass the road from the SSP residence to Saheed Chowk, Zakir Hussain Park to Radium Road, the old municipal corporation office to the commissioner's office, and the path from Upper Bazaar towards Saheed Chowk. Access to the main road from connecting arteries such as Purulia Road, Vishnu Cinema Marg, Church Road, and PP Compound will also be blocked.
Additionally, the flyover connecting Mecon Chowk to Munda Chowk will be closed for the duration. Vehicles approaching from Circular Road will be allowed to proceed only up to Jail More, where they will be diverted onto alternative routes to avoid congestion.
Official Guidance and Public Advisory
Traffic SP Rakesh Singh emphasized that traffic patterns will be adjusted starting around noon to accommodate the Sarhul processions. "Slides will be strategically placed on the roads to regulate traffic flow until the festivities conclude," he stated. Singh strongly advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel by vehicle during the enforcement of these restrictions to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety.
The coordinated efforts aim to balance religious observances with urban mobility, reflecting the city's commitment to facilitating cultural and spiritual events while maintaining order on its streets.
