Patna: Patna authorities have announced comprehensive traffic management measures ahead of Navratri and Durga Puja celebrations, including the closure of 12 major roads and a complete parking ban around Gandhi Maidan to manage anticipated heavy crowds.
The city administration has implemented these restrictions to prevent traffic congestion and ensure unobstructed access for ambulances and emergency services as millions of devotees are expected to visit pandals across the city during the festival period.
Major Road Closures in Patna
Vehicular movement has been prohibited on the central corridor stretching from Dak Bungalow Chowk to Kotwali. Additional restrictions affect routes from Patna Junction, Bhattacharya Chowk, and Swaminandan T-junction. The stretch between New Dak Bungalow and SP Verma Road will remain closed, with portions of Ashok Rajpath also restricted.
Moreover, in Patna, Traffic will be barred on Govind Mitra Road, Sabjibag Road, the route from Bakarganj Mor to Makhania Kuan, Nala Road Mor to Thakur Bari Mor, and Dinkar Roundabout to Machhuatoli Chowk. Commercial vehicles are specifically prohibited from using Ashok Rajpath between Digha and the eastern gates of Patna City.
Parking Restrictions and Alternatives
Gandhi Maidan and surrounding areas have been declared no-parking zones, including SP Verma Road to Kotwali police station, Titan Watch Chowk to Sinha Library and Chajjubagh, and areas near Patna Museum and Buddha Marg. Officials stated that unauthorized parking could intensify congestion and create security concerns.
Designated parking facilities have been established on Fraser Road between Dr. C.P. Thakur’s residence and Swaminandan Chowk, both sides of the road from Akashvani to JP Chowk, and service lanes of Veerchand Patel Marg. Patna College and Patna Science College grounds will serve as temporary parking sites. In Patna City, small vehicles and two-wheelers may park at City School Chowk, Mangal Talab, and outside Patna Sahib railway station.
Security and Medical Preparedness
Enhanced security arrangements include deployment of city SPs, DSPs, and station in-charges for pandal surveillance. Female officers in plain clothes have been stationed in crowded locations to ensure women’s safety. Police patrols and Dial 112 emergency response teams remain on standby.
PMCH, IGIMS, NMCH, AIIMS Patna, and Gardiner Road Hospital have been placed on high alert. Four temporary medical posts have been established around Gandhi Maidan, with emergency contact numbers distributed by the administration for immediate medical assistance.
