India: State government to host cultural rally in central Kolkata, West Bengal State, 14:00 Sept. 1.

Event

The West Bengal State government will hold a cultural procession from Jorasanko Thakur Bari to Esplanade in central Kolkata, from 14:00 Sept. 1. The event is to commemorate the recognition of the state's Durga Puja festivities as an intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The gathering will involve over 100,000 participants.

Authorities will enhance security measures, particularly around the Esplanade area. Officials will also ban the movement of goods vehicles in Kolkata city, except those carrying essential or emergency items, 08:00-20:00 Sept. 1. Additionally, all vehicular traffic must cease along Red Road 23:00-04:00 Aug. 30, 23:00-06:00 Aug. 31, and 00:30-05:00 Sept. 2. Further road closures and/or traffic diversions are probable along major roadways near the Esplanade, such as Mayo, Outram, SN Banerjee, and Lenin Sarani roads. Rerouting or curtailment of public transport services, roadblocks, and checkpoints are likely. Local businesses in the vicinity may close or alter opening hours.

Advice

Exercise caution around the rally route and gathering sites. Confirm business appointments, deliveries, transport reservations, and road status in central Kolkata Sept. 1. Allow additional travel and ground shipping time through Sept. 2. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Heed all official security and transport advisories.