India is celebrating the revered Jagannath Rath Yatra today. For those in Delhi, it is important to know about the road closures and divisions amid the procession. If you’re travelling across South Delhi on Thursday, July 16, plan your journey accordingly as the Delhi Traffic Police has issued a special traffic advisory in view of the 48th Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra in Hauz Khas. Daily commuters have been warned about road closures, diversions, and possible congestion.Here’s everything you need know:Traffic restrictions timings:As per the Delhi Traffic Police, special traffic arrangements will remain in force from 2 PM to 7 PMThe movement is expected to be slow throughout the afternoon and early evening.Roads likely to be affectedThe impact will be seen on Aurobindo Marg and surrounding roads in South Delhi. Authorities have advised commuters to expect congestion on:Aurobindo MargIIT Flyover approachAIIMS Flyover LoopAugust Kranti MargOuter Ring Road near Hauz KhasRing Road stretches connecting AIIMS and MunirkaNearby internal roads around Hauz Khas and Green ParkAlternate routes suggested:
Traffic Advisory
Those coming from Mehrauli or Chhatarpur towards Central Delhi can consider the AIIMS Flyover or take the diversion via Africa Avenue Road from IIT Gate.Motorists travelling from Central Delhi towards Mehrauli or Munirka are advised to use Ring Road and August Kranti Marg and avoid Aurobindo Marg during the restricted hours. Traffic police personnel will be deployed at key intersections to guide motorists through diversions.Advice for travellersThose who have a flight to catch from Indira Gandhi International Airport or a train from New Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin, or Delhi Cantt railway stations, it is advised to leave earlier for obvious reasons.Tourists planning to visit popular attractions such as Qutub Minar, Hauz Khas Fort, Deer Park, Safdarjung Tomb, or nearby shopping hubs may also encounter slower traffic during the afternoon. It is suggested to use the Delhi Metro for travel in the affected areas.Emergency servicesThe Delhi Traffic Police has clarified that emergency vehicles, including ambulances, police vehicles, and fire services, will be allowed to use restricted stretches whenever required. Meanwhile travellers are encouraged to:
Delhi traffic alert
Plan journeys well in advance.Avoid Aurobindo Marg between 2 PM and 7 PM.Prefer public transport if possible.Follow directions issued by Delhi Traffic Police.The Jagannath Rath Yatra is among the most significant annual religious processions celebrated by devotees of Lord Jagannath. The lord is revered by lakhs of devotees. This might cause temporary traffic restrictions to ensure public safety and the smooth conduct of the procession. Sources: Delhi Traffic Police advisory
