Chennai Police Announce Traffic Diversions and Parking Rules Around Fort St George for Independence Day Celebrations
To facilitate Independence Day celebrations at Fort St George on August 15, Chennai Police announced traffic diversions and parking rules from 6:00 AM. Restricted routes require valid passes, while general vehicles are diverted to Island Grounds. Access protocols vary depending on the arrival time and the colour category of the vehicle passes.
The Greater Chennai Traffic Police have announced extensive traffic diversions and parking arrangements around Fort St. George to facilitate the upcoming Independence Day celebrations on August 15. According to the official notification, the restrictions will be enforced starting at 6:00 AM and will remain in place until the conclusion of the flag-hoisting ceremony.
Restricted Corridors and Road Closures
As part of the security measures, major arterial stretches near the venue will be closed to general vehicular traffic. The affected areas include the stretch of Kamarajar Salai from the Labour Statue up to the RBI Subway North on Rajaji Salai, along with Flag Staff Road. Only vehicles bearing valid red and purple passes will be permitted to access these restricted routes. Chennai Latest News Today on August 13th, 2026: CM Vijay Takes Oath, Investment Conclave & Power Cuts.
Chennai Police Announce Traffic Diversions Around Fort St George
Red & Purple PASS pic.twitter.com/8VSQVLVXZn
— Greater Chennai Traffic Police (@ChennaiTraffic) August 13, 2026
Traffic arrangements pic.twitter.com/wcdFwSzPPQ
— Greater Chennai Traffic Police (@ChennaiTraffic) August 13, 2026
Guidelines for Official Pass Holders
Access protocols vary depending on the arrival time and the colour category of the vehicle passes:
- Red and Purple Passes: Authorised holders arriving before 8:10 AM can access the Secretariat via Rajaji Salai. Those arriving after 8:10 AM will be denied entry via the War Memorial and will instead be diverted through Flag Staff Road, Muthusamy Road, and Parrys Corner to park at the Public Works Department (PWD) parking lot.
- Blue and Pink Passes: Vehicles carrying blue and pink passes will face similar diversion protocols directing them to the PWD parking area.
- Media Vehicles: Press reporter vehicles are also directed to park at the PWD lot. Any overflow traffic will be routed to the Island Grounds 6th Gate via the RBI Subway and NSC Bose Road.
Arrangements for General Motorists
Vehicles without official passes will only be allowed to travel up to the Labour Statue. From there, motorists will be diverted via Wallajah Salai and Anna Salai toward the parking facility at the Island Grounds 9th Gate. Heading to the Red Fort for 80th Independence Day? Here's Your Guide to Free Metro Rides and Other Facilities.
In the event that the 9th Gate facility reaches full capacity, motorists without passes will be asked to alight near the Labour Statue and utilise alternative designated parking spots. These designated zones include the outgoing side of Anna Salai, Omandurar Hospital, Sivanandha Salai, Anna Swimming Pool, and the MRTS parking area. Commuters travelling through central Chennai are advised to plan their journeys in advance to avoid delays.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 13, 2026 03:22 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
