If you are planning to drive through the heart of the capital this week, you might want to check your map twice before heading out. With the Republic Day celebrations just around the corner, the Delhi Police has kicked off parade rehearsals, leading to significant traffic restrictions around the iconic Kartavya Path. Whether you are commuting to work or just passing through Central Delhi, knowing which roads are closed could save you from getting stuck in a massive gridlock.
Key Dates and Closed Corridors
The rehearsals are scheduled for January 17, 19, 20, and 21. During these days, traffic movement will be restricted from 10:15 am to 12:30 pm. The primary focus of these restrictions is to ensure a smooth rehearsal parade from Vijay Chowk to India Gate.
According to the advisory, Kartavya Path will be completely closed to general traffic from Vijay Chowk to India Gate. Consequently, cross-traffic will not be allowed at several major intersections during the rehearsal hours. You will need to steer clear of:
- Rafi Marg
- Janpath
- Man Singh Road
- The C-Hexagon
Motorists are advised to plan their journeys well in advance and expect diversions if they are near these zones.
Smart Detours: How to Navigate the City
To keep the city moving, the Delhi Traffic Police has suggested specific alternate routes. If your daily commute involves North-South or East-West travel across New Delhi, here is how you can bypass the blocked arteries:
For North-South Travel:
- Take the Ring Road via Sarai Kale Khan, I.P. Flyover, and Rajghat.
- Use Aurobindo Marg, Safdarjung Road, and Kamal Ataturk Marg to connect to Sardar Patel Marg and Mother Teresa Crescent.
- Opt for Lajpat Rai Marg via Mathura Road and Bhairon Road.
For East-West Travel:
- Utilize the Ring Road via Bhairon Road and Mathura Road towards Lodhi Road and Safdarjung Road.
- Drive through the Ring Road via ISBT and Chandgi Ram Akhara if heading towards Azadpur.
- For those heading to Connaught Place or Central Secretariat from South Delhi, Mother Teresa Crescent to Park Street and Mandir Marg is your best bet.
Flight Restrictions and Real-Time Help
It is not just the roads that are affected; travelers catching a flight should also stay alert. Airspace restrictions will be in place at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport from January 21 to January 26, specifically between 10:20 am and 12:45 pm. This is likely to impact over 600 flights, so checking your flight status with your airline is highly recommended.
For real-time traffic updates, the Delhi Traffic Police is active on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. You can also reach out via their WhatsApp number at 8750871493 or call the helpline at 1095 for immediate assistance.
Last Updated: 17 January 2026
