Bhubaneswar, October 14: The Commissionerate Police has imposed extensive traffic restrictions in Bhubaneswar from October 16 to 21 in view of Durga Puja celebrations. The restrictions will remain in force daily from 2 pm to 2 am to ensure smooth traffic movement and prevent congestion across the city.

Under the restrictions, the movement of heavy vehicles will be prohibited on several major roads in Bhubaneswar. Violators will face a fine of Rs500, which may go up to Rs1,000. However, the restrictions will not apply to essential service vehicles, including those belonging to the police, fire services, excise department and ambulances.

Roads covered under traffic restrictions

The restrictions will be enforced on the following routes:

• Rasulgarh Square to Lingipur Square
• Vani Vihar Square to Sishu Bhawan Square
• Acharya Vihar Square to Kalinga Hospital Square
• Acharya Vihar Square to New Airport Square
• Jayadev Vihar Square to Nandankanan Square
• Jayadev Vihar Square to Raj Bhavan Square
• CRP Square to Power House Square
• Fire Training School Square to Sishu Bhawan Square
• Khandagiri Square to Pokhariput Square
• Both sides of National Highway 16, from Baramunda to Palasuni

Diversions for buses

Buses arriving from Puri will be diverted via Lingipur Square, Pandara Square, Keshura Square and Hi-Tech Square before reaching Baramunda Bus Stand. No buses will be allowed to enter the city during the restricted hours.

Buses departing from Master Canteen Bus Stand will not be permitted to travel towards Vani Vihar or Ravi Talkies. Instead, they will be diverted via Ram Mandir and Housing Board Square towards Acharya Vihar.

The traffic arrangements have been put in place to manage the expected rush during the Durga Puja festivities and facilitate smoother movement for commuters and visitors.