Patna: Vehicular restrictions have been introduced across Patna as the city prepares for heavy traffic during the Navratri festival. Authorities said the measures, which began on Monday, will remain in place until October 3.
From September 29 to October 1, the movement of buses, trucks, tractors and light commercial vehicles such as Tata 407s has been suspended within the municipal limits. Metro trains and heavy vehicles engaged in construction work will also be barred from entering the city until October 3.
Key junctions closed
One of the busiest intersections, Dakbungalow Chowk, will be closed for four days. Vehicles will not be permitted to enter from Bhattacharya Chowk, Patna Junction or the Swaminandan T-junction. Traffic between Dakbungalow and Kotwali has been stopped in both directions. Those travelling from Patna Junction towards Gandhi Maidan have been advised to take the Goriya Toli–Exhibition Road route instead.
Alternate routes
For commuters heading towards the airport from Saguna Mor, a diversion via Ruknapur on Bailey Road, Rajabazar overbridge and Jagdev Path to BMP has been created. Vehicles heading towards Haritala Mor and Income Tax Circle from Saguna Mor can also use Ruknapur and the Rajabazar flyover.
Small vehicles bound for Digha, Patliputra and Rajinagar can take a left at Asiana Mor and use the Asiana–Digha Road. Traffic between Rajinagar and Digha to Haritala Chowk has been diverted through Atal Path, while those travelling from Dumra TOP to Saguna Mor have been directed to the Airport–Jagdev Path route.
Traffic flow on Ashok Rajpath
Two-way traffic will be permitted between Kargil Chowk and Gandhi Chowk on Ashok Rajpath. Beyond Gandhi Chowk towards Gaya Ghat and Didarganj, movement will only be allowed in a west-to-east direction. Commercial vehicles coming from Didarganj towards the west will not be admitted. Entry from West Gate, East Gate and Patna City Chowk into Ashok Rajpath has also been blocked. Commuters may instead use Gulzarbagh Station Road, Morcha Road and Sudarshan Path.
Parking arrangements
Fraser Road, the service lane of Veerchand Patel Path (from GPO Roundabout to R Block Chowk), and the grounds of Patna Science College and Patna College have been designated as parking areas. Two-wheelers and private vehicles may also park near City School Chowk and Mangal Talab.
Officials said the restrictions are intended to ease congestion and ensure smooth traffic flow during the festive period.
