Traffic Advisory for Beating Retreat Rehearsals in Delhi: Key Details and Restrictions
The Delhi Police has issued a comprehensive advisory regarding the rehearsals for the Beating Retreat ceremony, which marks the conclusion of Republic Day celebrations. The ceremony, a grand musical event presided over by the President of India, is scheduled to take place at Vijay Chowk, necessitating temporary traffic restrictions on January 27 and 28.
Traffic Restrictions
To facilitate the rehearsals, Vijay Chowk will remain closed to general traffic from 2 PM to 9:30 PM on both days. The advisory outlines specific road closures, including:
- Rafi Marg: From the roundabout at Sunehri Masjid to the roundabout at Krishi Bhawan.
- Raisina Road: From Krishi Bhawan to Vijay Chowk.
- Kartavya Path: Between Vijay Chowk and ‘C’-Hexagon.
- Several other adjoining areas, including Krishna Menon Marg and Dara Shikoh Road, will also see restricted movement.
Suggested Alternative Routes
To ease traffic flow, the advisory suggests alternative routes for motorists:
- Ring Road, Ridge Road, Aurobindo Marg, and Madarsa T-Point.
- Key connectors like Safdarjung Road, Rani Jhansi Road, and Minto Road.
Bus Diversions
Significant diversions for buses have been announced:
- Buses from Shanti Path, Vinay Marg, and Sardar Patel Marg heading towards Central Secretariat and Connaught Place will be rerouted via Panchsheel Marg, Simon Bolivar Marg, and Sheikh Mujibur Rehman Road.
- Central Secretariat-bound buses will terminate at Udyan Marg and return through Kali Bari Marg and Mandir Marg.
- Connaught Place-bound buses will use routes via Mandir Marg and Baba Khadak Singh Marg.
- Buses from South Delhi towards Old Delhi Railway Station or ISBT Kashmiri Gate will take Ring Road and Ridge Road.
- Routes for buses from Ashram Chowk, Vikas Marg, and Connaught Place have been adjusted to avoid restricted zones.
Beating Retreat Ceremony: A Tradition of Honor
The Beating Retreat ceremony, held three days after Republic Day, is a historic event that showcases the rich musical heritage of India’s armed forces. It features performances by the bands of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Delhi Police, and CAPF. The President of India, as the supreme commander of the armed forces, presides over this iconic event.
This tradition dates back to the 1950s, when it was first organized during the state visit of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Since then, it has become a symbol of gratitude and pride, honoring the nation’s armed forces.
Motorists and commuters are advised to plan their travel accordingly to avoid inconvenience during the rehearsals and the main ceremony.