Traffic Restrictions in Bhubaneswar for 78th Capital Foundation Day Celebrations
Bhubaneswar: The Commissionerate Police has announced traffic restrictions in several parts of the city in view of the 78th Capital Foundation Day celebrations scheduled for April 13.
According to an official notification, vehicular movement will be regulated along Sachivalaya Marg—from Rabindra Mandap to Jaydev Bhawan—and adjoining areas during both the rehearsal and the main event. The restrictions have been imposed under the Odisha Urban Police Act, 2003, and the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissionerate (Traffic and Public Order) Regulations, 2008.
Traffic curbs will be in place on April 12 from 6:00 am to 9:30 am for the rehearsal. On April 13, restrictions will remain effective from 6:00 am until the conclusion of the official parade and foundation day function.
As per the advisory, vehicles travelling from Housing Board Square towards Rabindra Mandap will be diverted at Keshari Talkies Square. Movement from AG Square towards PMG Square will be restricted, with vehicles redirected towards Raj Mahal Square. Similarly, vehicles approaching PMG Square from Master Canteen side will be diverted through alternate routes.
Entry from Unit-IV Market lane towards PMG Square and 120 Battalion Square will also be restricted. Vehicles from 120 Infantry Battalion Square will be diverted towards Power House Square instead of proceeding towards Rabindra Mandap. Additionally, traffic from Lok Bhawan Square heading towards MLA Colony and Rabindra Mandap will be diverted at 120 Battalion Square towards Sastrinagar Square.
Police have warned that violations of the traffic order will invite penalties under Section 96 of the Odisha Urban Police Act, 2003.
However, the restrictions will not apply to authorised vehicles accessing key government offices such as the State Assembly and Secretariat, as well as emergency services including police, fire, and ambulance vehicles.
Commuters have been advised to plan their routes in advance and cooperate with authorities to ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations.
