CHENNAI: In anticipation of large crowds for the Kanum Pongal celebrations on Saturday, the Greater Chennai Traffic Police (GCTP) has announced extensive traffic regulation plans for the city, particularly around Kamarajar Salai and the Marina Beach area.

With a significant public congregation expected from 11 am onwards, authorities have designed a series of diversions to manage vehicular flow and ensure pedestrian safety.

Key traffic diversions from 11 am on Saturday:

• Traffic from Parrys Corner towards Gandhi Statue will be redirected at War Memorial towards Flag Staff Road, eventually connecting to Anna Salai via Wallajah Road and Spencer Junction. MTC buses are exempt from this diversion.

• Stretch from Labour Statue to Kannagi Statue will be made one-way. Specific routes of MTC buses will be diverted via Bharathi Salai and Bells Road.

• General vehicles will be prohibited from moving from Gandhi Statue to Kannagi Statue; instead, they’re directed via RK Salai, Music Academy Junction, and TTK Salai.

• Several roads, including Victoria Hostel Road and Bells Road, will be designated as one-way.

• At key junctions like Periyar Statue, only vehicles headed for the beach will be permitted towards Swamy Sivananda Salai; others will be diverted.

Parking Arrangements:

The GCTP has strongly advised the public to plan their journeys in advance, follow signages and instructions of traffic personnel, and ensure cooperation for smooth and safe celebrations for everyone. The designated multiple parking zones across the city are:

• Foreshore Road (for all except buses, commercial vehicles)

• Swamy Sivananda Salai

• University of Madras

• PWD Ground and St Bede’s Ground

• MRTS-Chepauk premises

• Educational institutions like Lady Wellington School, Queen Mary’s College, and Presidency College

• Specific grounds at Medical College (EVR Salai) and Annai Sathya Nagar

• Srinivasapuram Loop Road will be reserved for bus parking only