Chennai is gearing up for the 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, and extensive preparations are underway along Kamarajar Salai (Marina Beach Road). As part of the build-up to the parade, full-dress rehearsals were held on Monday (Jan 19) and similar rehearsals are scheduled for January 21 and 23 ahead of the main event. Due to these activities, the Greater Chennai Traffic Police have announced traffic restrictions and diversions that will be in place on all three rehearsal days as well as on Republic Day itself.
Traffic Restrictions:
• The stretch of Kamarajar Salai between the Gandhi Statue and the War Memorial will be closed to all vehicular traffic from 6 a.m. until the rehearsal or event concludes (around 9:30 a.m.) on each of the designated days.
• Commercial vehicles coming from Adyar towards Parry’s Corner via Kamarajar Salai will be diverted at Greenways Point and routed through alternative roads including RK Mutt Road, TTK Road, Royapettah High Road and Anna Salai to reach Broadway.
• Other vehicles, including MTC buses, will be redirected at the Gandhi Statue onto RK Salai and connected roads to reach their destination.
Other Restrictions & Changes:
• Vehicles from Mylapore and Dr. Radhakrishnan Road at Royapettah will face restricted movement and will be redirected via alternate junctions.
• Several junctions on and around Kamarajar Salai, such as Dr. Natesan Road–Avvai Shanmugam Salai, Dr. Besant Road–Kamarajar Salai, Bharathi Salai–Bells Road and Wallajah Road–Bells Road, will be blocked with diversions in place.
• Flag Staff House Road will be closed from Wallajah Point towards the War Memorial.
• The Anna Square Bus Terminus will be temporarily shifted to Chintadripet Railway Station during the closure hours.
Motorist Advisory:
Authorities have urged commuters to plan their travel in advance, use suggested detours, and follow traffic police instructions to avoid congestion during these rehearsal mornings and on Republic Day itself.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/rehearsal-for-republic-day-celebration-held-on-monday-traffic-will-be-diverted-for-three-more-days-on-kamarajar-salai/article70525404.ece