Ahead of India's 80th Independence Day celebrations on August 15, 2026, the Delhi Traffic Police has released a comprehensive advisory outlining significant road closures and traffic diversions across central and north Delhi. These restrictions, primarily around the Red Fort area where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation, aim to ensure public safety and smooth event management.
The traffic regulations will be enforced from 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM on August 15. Commuters are strongly advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow for extra travel time, and consider alternative routes to avoid inconvenience.
Road Closures Around Red Fort
Several key roads will be completely closed to general traffic from 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM on Independence Day. These include:
- Netaji Subhash Marg (between Delhi Gate and Chatta Rail Chowk)
- Lok Nayak Road (between Delhi Gate and Chatta Rail Chowk)
- S.P. Mukherjee Marg (between H.C. Sen Marg and Kashmere Gate)
- Chandni Chowk Road (towards Red Fort)
- Nishad Raj Marg (towards Red Fort)
- Esplanade Road and Link Road (towards Netaji Subhash Marg)
- Ring Road (towards ISBT Kashmere Gate)
Additionally, traffic restrictions will impact routes around JLN Marg, the stretch of Ring Road between Nizamuddin Khata and ISBT Kashmere Gate, and the Outer Ring Road via Gandhi Bypass.
Roads to Avoid
Commuters are advised to steer clear of several other major thoroughfares during the restricted hours (4:00 AM to 10:00 AM). These include:
- Chirag Marg
- Copernicus Marg
- Mandi House
- Tilak Marg
- Mathura Road
- BSZ Marg
Suggested Alternate Routes
For those needing to travel through or around the affected areas, the Delhi Traffic Police has recommended specific alternate routes:
North-South Movement:
Travelers can utilize routes such as Aurobindo Marg, Safdarjung Road, Kamal Ataturk Marg, Kautilya Marg, S.P. Marg, NH-48, Moti Marg, Shanti Sarai Road, Park Street, Mandir Marg, Panchkuian Road, and Rani Jhansi Road.
East-West Movement:
Commuters traveling between NH-24/NH-9 and Ring Road can use Nizamuddin Khata and Barapullah Road. DND and Barapullah Road/Ring Road are also suggested as alternative options.
Trans-Yamuna Movement:
For movement across the Yamuna, Pusta Road towards ISBT Kashmere Gate via Yudhister Setu is recommended.
Restrictions for Commercial Vehicles and Buses
Goods vehicles will not be permitted between Nizamuddin Khata and Wazirabad Bridge from 12 midnight on August 14 until 11 AM on August 15. Interstate buses will also be diverted, operating between Maharana Pratap ISBT and Sarai Kale Khan ISBT. City buses and DTC services will face diversions from the affected corridors, aligning with the overall traffic management plan.
Advice for Commuters
The Delhi Traffic Police urges all commuters to consult official advisories for real-time updates, follow traffic signs, variable message signs, and directions from traffic personnel. Avoiding shortcuts through restricted areas is crucial for maintaining smooth traffic flow and ensuring public safety during the Independence Day celebrations.