As the national capital prepares to ring in the New Year, the Delhi Traffic Police has rolled out a comprehensive plan to manage the expected surge in vehicles and revellers. A detailed traffic advisory outlining restrictions, diversions, and alternative routes is now in effect for the evening of December 31, 2025, and the early hours of January 1, 2026. The focus is on ensuring smooth traffic flow and public safety in key celebration hubs like Connaught Place, India Gate, and major market areas.
Key Traffic Restrictions and No-Entry Zones
The advisory imposes specific bans on vehicle movement in the heart of the city. From 8 PM on December 31 until 2:30 AM on January 1, entry will be completely prohibited for all types of vehicles into the inner, middle, and outer circles of Connaught Place. This is a critical measure to manage the massive pedestrian crowds expected in this prime celebration zone.
Furthermore, to regulate traffic around the Central Delhi corridor, restrictions will be placed on movement towards India Gate. From 7:30 PM on December 31 to 1:30 AM on January 1, vehicles will not be allowed on certain roads leading to C-Hexagon, India Gate. This includes the use of the Kartavya Path as a thoroughfare. Only vehicles with valid parking labels for the designated lots near India Gate will be permitted on specific routes like Krishna Menon Marg, Akbar Road, and Shahjahan Road.
Alternative Routes for Commuters
To help commuters navigate the restrictions, the Delhi Traffic Police has suggested several alternative routes. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys in advance to avoid inconvenience.
For those travelling through the Connaught Place area:
- Commuters moving from Mandi House towards Radial Road number 1 can use Ferozshah Road instead.
- Traffic heading from Minto Road towards Radial Road number 1 is advised to take the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg route.
- Those travelling from Rajendra Prasad Road towards Connaught Place should use the Ranjit Singh Flyover and then proceed via Baba Kharak Singh Marg.
For movement around the India Gate zone: Traffic intending to go towards India Gate from the north or south will need to use the Ring Road as an alternative. Specific diversions will guide vehicles away from the restricted C-Hexagon area.
Public Advisory and Safety Measures
The Delhi Police has strongly urged citizens to use public transport like the Delhi Metro, which will run extended services, to reach celebration spots. This is expected to significantly reduce vehicular congestion on the roads. People driving to venues are advised to carpool wherever possible.
Authorities have also warned against dangerous activities. Drunken driving and speeding will be dealt with strictly, with enhanced checking across the city. The police have appealed to the public to cooperate with personnel on the ground, follow all signage, and celebrate responsibly to ensure a safe and happy start to 2026.
The advisory underscores that these arrangements are subject to change based on real-time ground situations. Citizens can stay updated through the Delhi Traffic Police's official social media handles and local radio bulletins for the latest information on traffic movement.
