Delhi Traffic Police has introduced special traffic restrictions and diversions around the Red Fort in preparation for the Full-Dress Rehearsal of Independence Day 2026.

Commuters travelling through central and north Delhi have been advised to plan their journeys carefully and allow additional travel time because several major roads and routes are affected by the traffic arrangements.

Roads to Avoid During Rehearsal

According to the traffic advisory, commuters without rehearsal parking labels should avoid several important roads and corridors until 10 AM.

These include C-Hexagon India Gate, Copernicus Marg, Mandi House, Sikandra Road, Tilak Marg, Mathura Road, BSZ Marg, Netaji Subhash Marg and J.L. Nehru Marg.

Traffic restrictions will also affect the Ring Road stretch between Nizamuddin Khatta and ISBT Kashmere Gate, along with the Outer Ring Road through Salimgarh Bypass.

Commuters who normally use these routes have been advised to select alternative roads and avoid entering restricted areas during the rehearsal period.

Interstate Bus Movement Restricted

Interstate bus services are also affected by the traffic arrangements.

Delhi Traffic Police said interstate buses will not be permitted to operate between Maharana Pratap ISBT and Sarai Kale Khan ISBT until 11 AM.

Passengers travelling by interstate buses have been advised to check their routes and allow additional time for their journeys.

DTC and Local Bus Services Diverted

Local city buses and Delhi Transport Corporation services will also be diverted from the affected corridors according to the traffic management plan.

The diversions are intended to keep traffic moving while ensuring security around the Red Fort and other areas connected with the Independence Day rehearsal.

Normal bus services are expected to resume after 11 AM, subject to clearance from traffic and security authorities.

Read more: Red Fort Bomb Threat Declared Hoax After Delhi Police Investigation

Commuters Advised to Plan Ahead

Delhi Traffic Police has urged commuters to plan their journeys in advance and leave home earlier than usual.

People travelling through central Delhi, areas around India Gate and routes connecting north and south Delhi should particularly account for possible delays.

Commuters have also been advised to avoid restricted roads instead of attempting to pass through traffic-control points and to use alternate routes wherever possible.

Security Arrangements Ahead of Independence Day

The traffic restrictions are part of wider security and traffic management arrangements ahead of Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort.

The full-dress rehearsal requires additional security measures and controlled movement around key locations.

Motorists and public transport users are therefore expected to follow traffic instructions and cooperate with personnel deployed along the affected routes.