India: Increased security, traffic disruptions certain in Chennai, Tamil Nadu State, for prime minister's rally March 4

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a rally for his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu State, at 17:00 March 4. The event, likely to involve tens of thousands of supporters, will occur at the YMCA Ground in Nandanam to mobilize support for the BJP ahead of general elections likely to be held by May. Although unlikely, minor demonstrations against central government policies are possible near the rally site and along the route between the Chennai International Airport (MAA) and the event venue. Significant participation, disruptions, or violence are unlikely.

Over 15,000 security personnel will guard the event; precautionary measures include security checks at major intersections, hotels, and transport hubs across Chennai. Police will also continue enforcing an ongoing ban on unmanned aerial vehicles, such as drones, through at least April 29.

Traffic restrictions are certain at event venues and along routes used by Prime Minister Modi. Heavy vehicles cannot ply on several roads 12:00-20:00; affected routes include those leading to Kathipara Junction via Ashok Pillar, Pallavaram, and Ramapuram; in the Guindy area; as well as the Indira Gandhi, Gandhi Mandapam, Mount, and Sardar Patel roads. Authorities have also warned that traffic congestion is likely around the event venue, mainly along or at Anna Salai, GST Road, Mount Poonamallee Road, CIPET junction, and 100-feet road. Roadways around MAA will also be affected. Authorities may reroute or curtail public transport serving the impacted areas. Limited commercial disruptions are possible due to the potential closure of local businesses.