The Bhubaneswar Traffic Police have announced temporary traffic restrictions across parts of the Odisha state capital as the city prepares to host Patha Utsav on 4 January. The measures are intended to ensure the safety of participants and to allow organisers to manage the event without disruption.
According to an official press release, the curbs will be in force for 12 hours, from 11pm on 3 January until 11am on 4 January. During this period, vehicular movement will be completely prohibited on the stretch between Master Canteen Square and Ram Mandir Square.
Patha Utsav Bhubaneswar traffic arrangements and timings
Authorities said the complete closure of the Master Canteen–Ram Mandir route is a temporary measure to facilitate the smooth organisation of the event and to reduce the risk of accidents. Traffic teams will be deployed along the perimeter of the restricted zone to manage flow and assist commuters.
The traffic police urged motorists and residents to avoid the affected route during the restriction period. Motorists have been advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time and use alternative arterial roads. Signage and temporary diversions will be in place and uniformed personnel will be present to guide traffic.
Officials also appealed for public cooperation, asking people to follow directions issued by traffic personnel and event stewards. Compliance, they said, would help ensure the successful and hassle-free conduct of Patha Utsav in the city and minimise inconvenience for residents.
While the press release did not list specific detours, drivers are encouraged to rely on local navigation updates and official Bhubaneswar Traffic Police communications. Public transport users should expect possible changes to bus schedules and stops in the vicinity during the closure period.
Patha Utsav is a civic and cultural occasion that typically draws local participants and visitors. Close coordination between the traffic police, municipal authorities and event organisers has been underlined as a priority to keep the event safe and orderly. The temporary restriction reflects standard practice in Indian cities hosting sizable public gatherings.
Residents with urgent travel needs during the restricted hours are advised to contact the Bhubaneswar Traffic Police help lines or follow verified social media updates for real-time information. The police have asked people to avoid speculation and share only official advisories to prevent confusion.
In the run-up to the event, officials will monitor the situation and make adjustments if required. Once the restrictions lift at 11am on 4 January, normal traffic movement is expected to resume on the affected stretch. Motorists are reminded to drive calmly and heed temporary traffic controls as services return to usual operation.
For further information, commuters should check announcements from the Bhubaneswar Traffic Police or the municipal corporation, and allow additional time for travel on the morning of 4 January.
Key Takeaways:
- Patha Utsav Bhubaneswar will see a 12-hour traffic closure from 11pm on 3 January to 11am on 4 January.
- Vehicular movement will be prohibited between Master Canteen Square and Ram Mandir Square to ensure public safety and smooth conduct of the event.
- Commuters are urged to plan ahead, avoid the affected route and follow instructions from traffic personnel.
