As India gets ready for its 77th Republic Day on January 26, authorities in the National Capital Region have released comprehensive traffic advisories
to control mobility and public safety. The measures are intended to minimise interruption and ensure the seamless passage of road users during a time of increased activity and substantial security activities.
Traffic disruptions have already begun from January 22 in New Delhi due to rehearsals of the historic Republic Day Beating Retreat ceremony and the full dress rehearsal of the Republic Day parade. With more than 10,000 security guards and cutting-edge AI technology in place, the city is ready for major mobility restrictions to guarantee the procession runs well.
Traffic advisory in Delhi and major road closures
The full dress rehearsal will begin at Vijay Chowk at 10.30 am and proceed in the direction of the Red Fort, similar to the main parade. Vehicle travel on Raisina Road from the roundabout at Krishi Bhawan towards Vijay Chowk will be restricted, and Vijay Chowk will stay closed for general traffic between 4-6.30 pm, according to a Delhi Traffic Police advisory.
According to the statement, traffic will not be permitted past the roundabouts at Dara Shikoh Road, Krishna Menon Marg, and Sunehri Masjid in the direction of Vijay Chowk during the rehearsal hours.
The C-Hexagon (India Gate) region will be off-limits to all vehicles starting at 9.15 am on January 23. Beginning at 10.30 am on Friday (January 23), key roads including Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, and Netaji Subhash Marg will be closed. Cross-traffic will only be allowed based on how the parade proceeds.
Traffic Advisory
????In view of Rehearsals for Beating Retreat on 22 Jan 2025, certain traffic restrictions will be in place around Vijay Chowk from 1600–1830 hrs.
????Use alternate routes via Ring Road / Ridge Road / Minto Road / Aurobindo Marg.
????Plan ahead & follow Delhi Traffic… pic.twitter.com/NL9JxXpVzJ
— Delhi Traffic Police (@dtptraffic) January 21, 2026
Besides the central Delhi limitations, Gurugram traffic officials have released additional advice that focuses on the movement of cargo vehicles. Medium and heavy freight vehicles will not be allowed to enter Delhi or Gurugram between 5 pm on January 22 and 1.30 pm on January 23. A second, similar limitation period is set for January 25 from 5 pm to January 26 from 1.30 pm.
Suggested alternate routes
Travellers should use the Ring Road via Sarai Kale Khan, Ashram Chowk, and the IP Flyover. As an alternative, the path that passes through Mother Teresa Crescent, Safdarjung Road, and Aurobindo Marg is still accessible. Commuters may access the Ring Road, NH-24, or DND Flyway via ISBT and Azadpur.
It has been suggested that drivers prepare ahead and use other routes, including Ring Road, Ridge Road, Aurobindo Marg, Madarsa T-Point, Safdarjung Road (to Kamal Ataturk Marg), Rani Jhansi Road, and Minto Road.
Passengers from South Delhi are urged to take the Ring Road via Dhaula Kuan or the Ajmeri Gate side to the New Delhi Railway Station to bypass the blockade at Connaught Place.
ALSO READ | Republic Day 2026: Remembering the unsung heroes who shaped India's Constitution
Heavy vehicles from Gurugram local areas would be sent to other routes at several locations, such as Hero-Honda Chowk, Shankar Chowk, Mehrauli Border, Sohna, Pataudi, and Farukhnagar, according to the Delhi Police.
Although access to stations close to restricted areas, such as Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhawan, may be limited based on security concerns, Delhi Metro services will continue as usual.
ALSO READ | Republic Day 2026 parade to roll out 30 tableaux, mark 150 years of Vande Mataram: All you need to know
Additionally, a large-scale deployment of police officers and traffic aids at key junctions will assist with enforcement and provide on-the-ground support.
