India: Traffic restrictions ahead of Republic Day celebrations in Delhi January 17-21 /update 1

Event

Delhi police authorities have issued traffic restrictions between Friday, January 17, and Tuesday, January 21, as Republic Day celebration rehearsals are scheduled across Delhi. Between January 17-18 and January 20-21, restrictions on vehicular movement will be implemented from 09:00 to 12:00 (local time) on the Rafi Marg, Janpath, and Mansingh roads.

Associated flight disruptions are also expected at Delhi International Airport (DEL) on January 18, January 20-24, and January 26.

Republic Day celebrations will take place in Delhi from Sunday, January 26, through Thursday, January 30. The Republic Day parade is set to begin at 09:30 (local time) on Sunday along Rajpath, from Raisina Hill to the Red Fort. Similar celebrations are set to take place in the following cities on Sunday:

• Mumbai at Shivaji Park or Marine Drive
• Bangalore at Manekshaw Parade Ground
• Kolkata along Red Road near Maidan
• Chennai at Kamaraj Salai and Marina Beach

The Beating the Retreat Ceremony will be held in Delhi on Wednesday, January 29, to mark the end of Republic Day celebrations.

On Thursday, January 30, Indian President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Defense Minister will gather at Raj Ghat in Delhi for a ceremony commemorating Martyrs' Day.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions, including road closures and traffic disruptions, are expected in the vicinity of all events and celebrations. Related celebrations are expected across India.  

Context

India celebrates January 26 as Republic Day to mark the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950.

Advice

Individuals in Delhi or traveling via DEL, and in India more generally, are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, as well as local customs and laws. Anticipate crowded travel conditions, including at airports, rail stations, and on roads, avoid large public gatherings as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence and transportation and business disruptions - including flight delays and cancelations.