Traffic Advisory: As is customary, the nation will celebrate Independence Day on August 15, 2026. In anticipation of the national festivities at the Red Fort in Delhi, security measures have been updated throughout the capital, affecting roads, metro stations, railways, and airports. The Delhi Traffic Police have released a comprehensive traffic advisory.

On Saturday, the Prime Minister will deliver a speech to the nation from the Red Fort’s ramparts. To ensure smooth traffic flow and security, stringent traffic regulations will be enforced starting at 4:00 am. Roads surrounding the Red Fort will be closed to traffic until approximately 10 am. Additionally, commercial vehicles will be banned from several roads beginning Friday night, August 14th. To minimize public inconvenience, the police have provided alternative routes and essential guidelines.

The following roads around the Red Fort will remain closed until 10 am:

Netaji Subhash Marg (from Chatta to SP Mukherjee Marg)

Lothian Road (from GPO to Kutchery Road)

SP Mukherjee Marg (from Nisar Chowk to Red Fort)

Chandni Chowk Road (from Fountain Chowk to Red Fort)

Nishant Raj Marg (from Ring Road to Netaji Subhash Marg)

Esplanade Road and its connecting roads

Ring Road (from Rajghat to ISBT)

Commercial vehicles will be restricted starting tonight; what are the guidelines for buses?

Goods vehicles: The entry of goods vehicles will be limited between Nizamuddin Bridge and Wazirabad Bridge from 11:00 pm on August 14 to 11:00 am on August 15.

Inter-state buses: Buses will not operate between Maharana Pratap Bus Terminal (Kashmere Gate), Sarai Kale Khan, and ISBT from 04:00 am to 11:00 am on August 15.

DTC and local buses: DTC and other local buses heading towards Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Delhi Gate will be prohibited on Ring Road (from Rajghat to ISBT) from 4:00 am to 10:00 am and will be redirected to alternative routes.

 

What routes should be taken during the traffic ban?

North-South Traffic: It is advisable to use Mother Teresa Crescent, Park Street, Mandir Marg, Rani Jhansi Marg, and Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road for travel.

East-West Traffic: Directed via NH-24 (Nizamuddin Bridge) – Vikas Marg – Yunus Marg – Pushta Road – GT Road or NH-09 – Ring Road – Bhairon Road – Mathura Road – Subramanya Bharti Marg – Rajesh Pilot Marg.

 

Approach routes to railway stations and bus terminals

For those heading to Old Delhi Railway Station: There will be traffic restrictions for vehicles coming from Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Marg. It is recommended to take routes such as Hanuman Mandir, GPO, and Motia Khan Marg.

 

For those going to New Delhi Railway Station: Normal traffic will be allowed from both Ajmeri Gate and Paharganj, but it is advisable to go via Ring Road and Bhavbhuti Marg.

 

ISBT Kashmiri Gate: To reach the bus stand and LNJP Hospital, follow the diversion routes set by the traffic police.

 

Guest parking and stickers

Special color-coded parking labels (car parking passes) have been issued for invited guests’ vehicles.

 

Red/Green Pass: For parking at Parade Ground (near Chandni Chowk).

Yellow Pass: For parking in front of Shanti Van and Rajghat.

Vehicles without parking labels will not be permitted to enter the restricted area.

 

Instructions on metro services too

Metro trains will run as usual at all Delhi Metro stations, although some station gates may be closed or regulated for security purposes. The police have announced that flying drones, paragliders, and hot air balloons are strictly prohibited around the Red Fort. Travelers heading to the airport, railway station, or bus stand are advised to leave their homes with ample time. The traffic police encourage individuals to reach out to the helpline 011-25844444 / 1095 for any assistance.