Republic Day: Delhi Traffic Advisory For Parade Rehearsals, Routes To Avoid And Timings

With Republic Day just a few days away, the national capital is preparing for the grand annual parade. Authorities have intensified security measures, and full-scale rehearsals are scheduled in the coming days. As a result, commuters across central Delhi will likely face traffic restrictions, road closures, and diversions during specific hours. 
 
The Delhi Police and Traffic Police have issued an advisory. They urge residents and visitors to plan travel to avoid inconvenience.

Republic Day Parade Rehearsals: Dates, Route And Timings

According to official information, Republic Day parade rehearsals will be conducted on January 17, 19, 20, and 21. The rehearsals will take place along Kartavya Path, from Vijay Chowk to India Gate, and will extend up to the C-Hexagon.

Traffic restrictions will be enforced from 10:15 am to 12:30 pm on all four days to ensure parade contingents move without interruption. During this time, several roads in central Delhi will be closed or regulated for security and rehearsals. 
 
Authorities state these arrangements are essential for smooth rehearsals and safety before the national event.

Road Closures And Traffic Restrictions In Central Delhi

According to the traffic advisory, Kartavya Path from Vijay Chowk to India Gate will remain closed to general traffic during rehearsal hours. Key crossings along the parade route such as Rafi Marg, Janpath, Man Singh Road, and the C-Hexagon will also be temporarily shut.

Officials warn these closures will cause traffic on adjoining roads, especially in late mornings. Official personnel will assist commuters in affected zones. 
 
Motorists are advised to follow on-ground instructions, adhere to traffic signage, and exercise patience while navigating regulated areas. Emergency services and essential vehicles will be facilitated according to standard operating procedures.

Suggested Alternate Routes For North-South And East-West Travel

The Traffic Police suggest several alternate routes for city commuters to minimise disruption. 
 
For north–south movement, travellers can use the Ring Road via Sarai Kale Khan and the I.P. Flyover towards Rajghat. Another option is Mathura Road and Bhairon Road through Lajpat Rai Marg to connect with Ring Road. Other routes include Aurobindo Marg, Safdarjung Road, Kamal Ataturk Marg, and Kautilya Marg, which connect to Sardar Patel Marg, Mother Teresa Crescent, and Baba Kharak Singh Marg.

For east–west travel, commuters may take the Ring Road via Bhairon Road and Mathura Road, then continue towards Subramaniam Bharti Marg, Rajesh Pilot Marg, and Prithviraj Road. Another option is the Ring Road via ISBT, Chandgi Ram Akhara, and Mall Road towards Azadpur. These diversions are expected to absorb redirected traffic from central Delhi during rehearsal hours.

Access To Connaught Place And Commuter Advisory

Those travelling from South Delhi towards Connaught Place or Central Secretariat are advised to use Mother Teresa Crescent via Park Street towards Mandir Marg or Baba Kharak Singh Marg. They can also use the Ring Road via Vande Mataram Marg and Link Road, then towards Panchkuian Road.

Motorists heading towards Vinay Marg or Shanti Path and continuing into New Delhi can use Sardar Patel Marg, Mother Teresa Crescent, and the RML roundabout. Park Street via Mandir Marg is another option, depending on traffic conditions.

What Commuters Should Keep In Mind During Rehearsal Days

With multiple arterial roads in central Delhi affected, commuters should allow extra travel time during the rehearsal window. Office-goers and travellers with fixed schedules may want to reschedule non-essential trips for the notified dates between late morning and early afternoon. Using public transport, including the Delhi Metro and buses on unaffected routes, may help reduce delays and avoid congestion near restricted zones.

Authorities have said that traffic arrangements may change at short notice based on security assessments. Commuters are encouraged to monitor official advisories, traffic helpline updates, and local announcements before starting their journeys. Public cooperation will be key to ensuring rehearsals proceed smoothly as the city prepares to host the Republic Day parade.

(With inputs from PTI)

FAQs

1. On which dates will Republic Day parade rehearsals take place? 

Republic Day parade rehearsals are scheduled on January 17, 19, 20 and 21 along Kartavya Path in central Delhi. 

2. What will be the rehearsal timings? 

Traffic restrictions will be enforced from 10:15 am to 12:30 pm on all rehearsal days. 

3. Which areas in Delhi will be most affected? 

Roads around Kartavya Path, India Gate, Vijay Chowk and the C-Hexagon will face closures. 

4. Will Connaught Place remain accessible during rehearsals? 

Yes, but access will be regulated. Commuters are advised to use alternate routes and follow on-ground instructions from traffic police. 

5. Are alternate routes suggested for commuters? 

Yes. Ring Road, Mathura Road, Bhairon Road, Aurobindo Marg and Sardar Patel Marg are among the recommended alternatives.