Bhubaneswar: In a bid to ensure public safety and convenience during the Ashokastami Car Festival of Lord Lingaraj, the Commissionerate Police has imposed traffic restrictions in Bhubaneswar.
The festival will take place on April 5-6, 2025, and the return car festival will be observed on April 9-10, 2025.
As per traffic regulations, no vehicles will be allowed on Rath Road from Mausimaa Chowk. They will be diverted either towards Museum Chowk or towards Vivekananda Marg. Additionally, vehicles will not be allowed on Rath Road from several lanes, including Barik Sahi Lane, Maharana Sahi Lane, Gosagareswar Chhak, Sital Sasthi Lane, Tinimundia Chhak, Harchandi Lane, Muna Medical Lane, and Punama Gate Lane. Furthermore, vehicles coming from Rath Khala will be diverted towards Bata Mahadev Temple.
The Commissionerate Police also made it clear that these traffic regulations have been issued to prioritize public safety, and any violations will be considered an offense under Section 96 of the Odisha Urban Police Act, 2003. Those found guilty will face a minimum fine of Rs 500, which can be increased up to Rs 1,000 per offense. Additionally, the offense is compoundable by an officer, allowing for a settlement to be reached.
Besides, police have advised devotees and citizens to cooperate with the traffic restrictions and follow the diversion routes to avoid any inconvenience.
