Patna: Traffic authorities in Patna have announced sweeping restrictions on the movement of auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws around Gandhi Maidan on April 20, as the city prepares for a large protest march in support of the Nari Shakti Vandan amendment bill.
Police said the “Aakrosh March”, expected to draw a significant turnout of women activists, will begin at Bapu Sabhagar, prompting concerns over congestion in the central parts of the city. Authorities have urged residents to avoid affected routes and plan alternative journeys.
Under the temporary traffic plan, autos and e-rickshaws will be barred from operating in the Gandhi Maidan area from 6am until the conclusion of the event.
Several diversions have been put in place. Vehicles approaching from Danapur via Rajapur Bridge will be turned back at the Police Line T-point. Those coming from Gai Ghat along Ashok Rajpath will be redirected via Kunkun Singh Lane near Krishna Ghat. Entry towards Gandhi Maidan from Bhattacharya Crossing on Exhibition Road will be closed entirely.
On SP Verma Road, vehicles will be allowed only up to the Swaminandan T-point before being diverted back through Bata Mor. Movement towards T.N. Banerjee Path from Buddha Marg and Chhajjubagh will also be restricted.
In addition, autos and e-rickshaws will not be permitted along the stretch between Kotwali T-point and Police Line T-point, or between Police Line Gate No. 01 and Bank Road. Vehicles travelling from Machhua Toli along Bari Path will be allowed only up to Thakurbari Mor, with no access beyond towards Gandhi Maidan or Bakarganj.
Traffic police have appealed for public cooperation, urging commuters to follow the revised routes and avoid restricted areas to help maintain order during the march.
