If you’re planning to drive through central Delhi or enter the capital from Gurugram between January 22 and 26, 2026, you’d better have a solid backup plan. The city is gearing up for its grandest spectacle—the Republic Day parade—and that means a complete overhaul of the usual traffic flow. The Republic Day traffic restrictions announced by the Delhi and Gurugram Traffic Police are extensive, and ignoring them could mean hours wasted in a frustrating standstill.
The main trigger for this week-long disruption is the full dress rehearsal scheduled for Friday, January 23. This dry run is almost as elaborate as the main event, requiring the closure of key arteries in the heart of the city. To make matters more complex, heavy vehicles are being barred from entering Delhi via Gurugram, creating a ripple effect across the entire National Capital Region (NCR). Don’t be caught off guard—this guide has everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
- Key Road Closures for January 23 Full Dress Rehearsal
- Republic Day Traffic Restrictions in Gurugram and Delhi Entry Bans
- Recommended Alternative Routes to Avoid Central Delhi
- Timeline of All Republic Day-Related Traffic Advisories
- Conclusion: Your Essential Checklist for a Smooth Commute
- Sources
Key Road Closures for January 23 Full Dress Rehearsal
The epicenter of the traffic disruption will be the area around Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) and its connecting roads. On January 23, starting from 10:30 AM, several major thoroughfares will be completely shut down to all vehicular traffic in both directions .
Roads to Completely Avoid on January 23:
- Tilak Marg
- Azad Marg
- Netaji Subhash Marg
- Parts of Janpath and Mansingh Road (where parking is also prohibited)
Cross-traffic at these points will be severely restricted or managed manually by traffic personnel. If your daily commute takes you anywhere near Connaught Place, India Gate, or Vijay Chowk, expect significant delays or complete blockades. It’s not just about the main parade route; the security perimeter extends far beyond, affecting a wide swathe of central Delhi.
Republic Day Traffic Restrictions in Gurugram and Delhi Entry Bans
The impact isn’t confined to Delhi. The Gurugram Traffic Police have issued a crucial advisory that affects anyone transporting goods or traveling into the capital from the south. From January 22 to January 26, a temporary ban is in place on the entry of non-perishable commercial and heavy vehicles into Delhi via Gurugram .
This measure is designed to decongest the roads and ensure a smooth flow for the parade contingents and security vehicles. However, it’s important to note that essential services are exempt. Vehicles carrying milk, vegetables, fruits, fire brigade units, ambulances, and those with airport passengers will be allowed to pass .
For logistics companies and truck drivers, this means rerouting their journeys well in advance. For regular commuters using the Delhi-Gurugram corridor, it could mean slightly less congestion from large trucks, but also potential checks and diversions at border points.
Recommended Alternative Routes to Avoid Central Delhi
The golden rule for the next few days is simple: stay away from central Delhi. The authorities are urging all non-essential traffic to use peripheral routes. Here are some practical alternatives:
- North-South Movement: Instead of using the inner ring road through central Delhi, opt for the Outer Ring Road or the Western and Eastern Peripheral Expressways.
- East-West Movement: Use roads like Mathura Road, Aurobindo Marg, or Sri Aurobindo Marg to bypass the restricted zone.
- Public Transport is King: The Delhi Metro is your best friend during this period. Its network is largely unaffected and provides a fast, reliable way to get around the city without the stress of road traffic. Check for any station-specific advisories, but generally, the metro will be the most efficient option.
For real-time updates on your specific route, always check the official Delhi Traffic Police Twitter handle before you leave home. Planning ahead is not just a suggestion—it’s a necessity.
Timeline of All Republic Day-Related Traffic Advisories
To give you a complete picture, here’s a breakdown of the key dates and restrictions:
| Date | Event | Key Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 22 | Beating Retreat Rehearsal | Restrictions near Vijay Chowk . Heavy vehicle ban from Gurugram begins. |
| Jan 23 | Full Dress Rehearsal | Major road closures from 10:30 AM on Tilak Marg, Azad Marg, Netaji Subhash Marg . |
| Jan 24-25 | Final Preparations | Ongoing security setup; expect intermittent checks and localized diversions. |
| Jan 26 | Republic Day Parade | Widespread, stringent restrictions from early morning (as early as 4 AM) around Kartavya Path and surrounding areas . |
Remember, these are the major events. Smaller rehearsals have been taking place on preceding days (Jan 17, 19, 20, 21), so a general state of caution is advised throughout the week .
Conclusion: Your Essential Checklist for a Smooth Commute
Navigating Delhi during the Republic Day festivities requires patience, planning, and flexibility. Here’s your quick checklist:
- Check the Date: Know which day has which level of restriction.
- Avoid the Core: Steer clear of central Delhi, especially on Jan 23 and 26.
- Go Metro: Rely on the Delhi Metro for a hassle-free journey.
- Plan Ahead: Add at least an extra hour to your travel time if you must drive.
- Stay Updated: Follow official police social media channels for real-time alerts.
By following these guidelines, you can turn a potential traffic nightmare into a manageable part of your day. After all, a little inconvenience is a small price to pay to witness the grandeur and pride of our nation’s biggest celebration. For more on navigating the NCR, see our guide on [INTERNAL_LINK:best-commuting-tips-for-delhi-ncr].