In anticipation of large gatherings for Christmas celebrations, the Delhi Traffic Police has issued a comprehensive traffic advisory for Sunday, December 24, and Monday, December 25. The advisory outlines specific diversions and restrictions to manage the expected surge in vehicular movement around prominent churches and festive areas across the national capital.
Key Areas Under Traffic Restrictions
The police have identified several zones that will witness special traffic arrangements. The primary focus areas include Connaught Place, Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gol Dak Khana, and St. Mary's Orthodox Cathedral in R.K. Puram. These locations are expected to draw significant crowds for midnight mass and other Christmas services.
According to the advisory, traffic movement will be regulated in the inner, middle, and outer circles of Connaught Place. Specific points like the roundabouts at Mandi House and Bengali Market will also see controlled traffic flow to prevent bottlenecks and ensure pedestrian safety.
Detailed Diversion Plan for Motorists
To facilitate smooth traffic, the Delhi Traffic Police has laid out a detailed diversion plan. Vehicles heading towards Connaught Place from different parts of the city will need to follow alternative routes.
For traffic coming from the south: Vehicles moving on Barakhamba Road towards Connaught Place will be diverted at the roundabout near the Modern School. They will be redirected towards Tolstoy Marg or Kasturba Gandhi Marg as alternatives.
For traffic from the north side: Vehicles on Rani Jhansi Road heading for Connaught Place will be diverted at the roundabout near Jhandewalan. The suggested alternative routes include Panchkuian Road and Ranjit Singh Flyover.
Additionally, parking restrictions will be strictly enforced. The police have explicitly stated that no vehicle will be allowed to park on the main roads around the churches and Connaught Place. Motorists are advised to use designated parking lots in the vicinity to avoid penalties and towing.
Commuters Urged to Plan Ahead
The Delhi Traffic Police has urged the public to cooperate with personnel on the ground and to plan their journeys in advance. Commuters traveling to railway stations, the airport, or interstate bus terminals are advised to factor in extra time due to the anticipated delays on these routes.
The advisory also recommends using public transportation, such as the Delhi Metro, to reach festive destinations. Metro stations like Rajiv Chowk (for Connaught Place) and Central Secretariat are expected to be busy but offer a reliable alternative to road travel during this period.
This annual traffic plan is implemented to ensure that the joyous Christmas celebrations are not marred by traffic chaos and accidents. The police have assured that sufficient personnel will be deployed at all critical points to manage the situation and assist the public.
