What Traffic Restrictions Are in Place for Republic Day Rehearsals in Chennai?
Synopsis
As Chennai prepares for Republic Day, traffic restrictions will be enforced as rehearsals take place on January 19, 21, and 23. Motorists are advised to stay informed about diversions and plan their routes accordingly.
Key Takeaways
Kamarajar Salai will be closed from 6 a.m. on rehearsal days.
Traffic diversions will be in place for four days.
Commercial vehicles will be rerouted at Greenways Point .
All motorists should plan ahead to avoid delays.
Temporary relocation of Anna Square Bus Terminus to Chintadripet Railway Station .
Chennai, Jan 18 (NationPress) The Greater Chennai Traffic Police (GCTP) has declared extensive traffic diversions and road closures in light of the upcoming Republic Day festivities set for January 26.
To facilitate the preparations, full-dress rehearsals are scheduled for January 19, 21, and 23, leading to traffic restrictions over a span of four days, including Republic Day. According to the GCTP, Kamarajar Salai will be entirely off-limits to all vehicular traffic starting at 6 a.m. on rehearsal days and on January 26.
The restricted area stretches from the Gandhi Statue to the War Memorial and will remain closed until the rehearsals or the main event conclude, tentatively until 9.30 a.m. Commercial vehicles traveling from Adyar towards Parrys Corner via Kamarajar Salai will be redirected at Greenways Point.
These vehicles will be rerouted through R.K. Mutt Road, Thiruvenkadam Street, Devanathan Street, St. Mary's Road, Venkatesa Agragaram Road, Dr. Ranga Road, East Abiramapuram First Road, Ramachandra Rao Road, Luz Avenue-Amirthanjan Junction, P.S. Sivasamy Salai, Nilgiris Point, Music Academy, TTK Road, Gowdia Mutt Road, Royapettah High Road, Government Royapettah Hospital (GRH), Tower Clock, GP Road, and Anna Salai to reach Broadway.
All other vehicles, including MTC buses from Adyar heading towards Parrys Corner, will be redirected at the Gandhi Statue towards R.K. Salai, Nilgiris Point, Music Academy, TTK Road, Gowdia Mutt Road, Royapettah High Road, GRH, Tower Clock, GP Road, and Anna Salai.
Vehicles approaching from Mylapore and Dr. Radhakrishnan Road at Royapettah I Point will be required to make left turns for MTC buses towards Nilgiris Point, Music Academy, and TTK Road. Other vehicles may choose to turn left or right to reach their destinations.
Additional restrictions include complete closures beyond Dr. Natesan Road-Avvai Shanmugam Salai Junction, Dr. Besant Road-Dr. Kamarajar Salai Junction, Bharathi Salai-Bells Road Junction, and Wallajah Road-Bells Road Junction, with vehicles diverted via Ice House Junction or Bells Road, as appropriate.
The Anna Square Bus Terminus will temporarily relocate to Chintadripet Railway Station. Vehicles traveling from Parrys Corner towards Adyar will be redirected at RBI Subway (North) through Raja Annamalai Mandram, Anna Salai, and Royapettah routes.
Access to Flag Staff House Road towards the War Memorial will be fully restricted. Motorists are urged to plan their journeys ahead of time and cooperate with traffic personnel during the restriction period.
Point of View
The Greater Chennai Traffic Police's proactive measures reflect a commitment to ensuring public safety and smooth traffic flow. While these restrictions may cause temporary inconvenience, they are necessary for the successful execution of a significant national event. Citizens are encouraged to remain patient and cooperate with traffic directives.
NationPress
10 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the Republic Day rehearsals in Chennai?
The full-dress rehearsals for Republic Day are scheduled for January 19, 21, and 23.
What traffic restrictions will be in effect?
Kamarajar Salai will be closed to all vehicular traffic from 6 a.m. on rehearsal days and on January 26, along with other diversions across the city.
How can I navigate around the traffic restrictions?
Drivers should follow the designated diversion routes provided by the Greater Chennai Traffic Police to reach their destinations.
Where will the Anna Square Bus Terminus be relocated?
The Anna Square Bus Terminus will temporarily move to Chintadripet Railway Station during the rehearsals and Republic Day.
What should motorists do during the traffic restrictions?
Motorists are advised to plan their travel in advance and cooperate with traffic personnel.
