People in Delhi NCR have begun to experience ordeals of traffic related restrictions and diversions which are set to be in place ahead of Independence Day on Friday. Delhi Traffic Police has announced special traffic restrictions across key parts of the capital. Several major roads will remain closed for the movement of general vehicles from 4 am to 10 am on Wednesday, August 13, with only vehicles bearing special labels permitted to pass through the restricted areas.
With Independence Day 2025 around the corner, authorities in Delhi-NCR are stepping up security and traffic regulations, especially around high-security zones like the Red Fort. In view of the full dress rehearsal for Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort, traffic Advisory and a host of measures are aimed at ensuring smooth movement and security during the rehearsals, which will closely replicate the arrangements for August 15.Noida, Gurgaon, and Faridabad will also see vehicle restrictions. Commuters should use public transport and plan routes. Heavy vehicle operators should use alternate expressways.
From 12 midnight on August 12 to 11 am on August 13, the movement of goods vehicles will be completely prohibited between Nizamuddin Bridge and Wazirabad Bridge. Entry of heavy vehicles into Delhi from Gurugram, Faridabad, Noida, and Ghaziabad will also be restricted starting Tuesday evening. While the ban will be lifted post-noon on August 13, it will be reinstated from the night of August 14 until noon on August 15. Inter-state buses operating between Maharana Pratap ISBT and Sarai Kale Khan ISBT will also be suspended during these hours.
Heavy vehicles will not be allowed to enter Delhi from Gurugram during two specific periods, from 5 PM today, August 12. This restriction will be in place for the full-dress rehearsal. Also from 5 PM on August 14 to 1:30 PM on August 15, traffic restrictions will be in place for the main Independence Day event. Drivers have been advised to use the KMP Expressway when travelling to other states or districts and to park vehicles only in designated areas.
To manage traffic flow, diversions will be in place for vehicles coming from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Salimgarh Bypass, Vikas Marg and nearby areas. Dedicated alternate routes will be available for buses approaching from Ajmeri Gate, South Delhi, Mall Road, and Baraf Khana, keeping them away from restricted zones.The curbs will impact commercial vehicles, city buses, and inter-state buses plying around the Red Fort. Authorities are urging commuters to use public transport especially the Delhi Metro and to plan travel well in advance to avoid delays.
Security arrangements will be tight, and visitors are prohibited from carrying cameras, binoculars, remote-controlled car keys, handbags, and water bottles near the venue. Citizens are also urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or objects to the police immediately.