Delhi Imposes Traffic Restrictions for Independence Day Rehearsal

Delhi authorities have imposed extensive traffic restrictions across central and north Delhi for the full-dress rehearsal of the Independence Day celebrations, with road closures and diversions in effect from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. on August 13, 2026. The measures, aimed at ensuring security and managing traffic around the Red Fort, will affect key routes and public transport services, prompting officials to urge commuters to plan journeys in advance and use alternative modes of travel.

The restrictions, announced by the Delhi Traffic Police, will close several roads surrounding the Red Fort to general traffic, permitting passage only for vehicles with valid rehearsal labels. Affected stretches include Netaji Subhash Marg from Delhi Gate to Chatta Rail Chowk, Lothian Road from GPO Delhi to Chatta Rail Chowk, S P Mukherjee Marg from H C Sen Marg to Yamuna Bazar Chowk, Chandni Chowk Road from Fountain Chowk to the Red Fort, Nishad Raj Marg, Esplanade Road, and the Ring Road between Rajghat and ISBT Kashmere Gate. Motorists without parking labels are advised to avoid the C-Hexagon around India Gate, Copernicus Marg, Mandi House, Tilak Marg, Mathura Road, BSZ Marg, J L Nehru Marg, and...