CHENNAI: The Greater Chennai Traffic Police (GCTP) has announced a series of traffic diversions in the Besant Nagar area to facilitate the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Annai Velankanni Church. The festivities commence with a flag hoisting ceremony on Friday and continue until September 8.

The diversions already started on Friday and will continue on August 31, September 1, September 7, and September 8.

According to the official press note, the following traffic changes are in effect: Vehicles travelling from the Thiru-Vi-Ka Bridge and SV Patel Road towards Besant Avenue and the Besant Nagar Bus Terminus will be restricted from the Aavin Park (ML Park). Instead, these vehicles must use LB Road to reach their destinations.

There will be a complete restriction on vehicles moving towards the Annai Velankanni Church from the junction of 7th Avenue and MG Road.

MTC buses from ML Park going towards Besant Nagar Bus Terminus will not be allowed on Besant Avenue. They will be diverted via LB Road, taking a left onto Shasthri Nagar 1st Avenue, a right onto Shasthri Nagar 1st Main Road, a left onto MG Road, and finally a left onto Besant Nagar 1st Main Road to access the terminus.

MTC buses departing from the Besant Nagar Bus Terminus will be diverted via Besant Nagar 1st Avenue and Shasthri Nagar 1st Avenue. They will then take a left onto Shasthri Nagar 1st Main Road, a right onto MG Road, and proceed to LB Road to continue their route.

The GCTP has urged all motorists to cooperate with officials on duty to ensure smooth traffic flow and the safe conduct of the religious celebrations. Commuters are advised to plan their journeys in advance and expect delays on the specified dates.