Several commuters faced traffic congestion on Tuesday due to restrictions on certain roads for the full dress rehearsal of Republic Day in central Delhi. The closure of key roads in the heart of the national capital led to traffic disruptions.
Despite the issuance of a traffic advisory, which allowed commuters to plan their journeys in advance and use designated alternative routes, some people did not follow the guidelines, resulting in traffic congestion, according to a traffic police official. The rehearsal started at 10:30 am from Vijay Chowk and proceeded through Kartavya Path, C-Hexagon, and the roundabout with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s statue, Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, and Netaji Subhas Marg, concluding at the Red Fort. Traffic movement was impacted on C-Hexagon, Ashoka Road, Rafi Marg near Krishi Bhawan, and on Ring Road from Sarai Kale Khan to ITO. To manage and control the flow of vehicles, the traffic police were deployed along these affected routes.
The entry to Kartavya Path from Vijay Chowk to India Gate was closed on Monday evening, and the restrictions were lifted on Tuesday evening after the completion of the full dress rehearsal. Preparatory rehearsals for the Republic Day parade are conducted in advance to refine preparations and ensure a smooth execution on the day of the event.
The full dress rehearsal attracted the presence of Delhi citizens who witnessed the display of valour by the Armed Forces and the rich cultural heritage of India.