Chennai is gearing up for the vibrant Kaanum Pongal celebrations on January 16, 2025, with the Greater Chennai Traffic Police announcing detailed traffic arrangements to manage the expected large crowds. Kamarajar Salai, a key area for the festivities, will see normal traffic flow as much as possible. However, diversions will be implemented when vehicle flow increases. Vehicles from the War Memorial to the Lighthouse will be allowed on Kamarajar Salai as usual, while vehicles from the Lighthouse to the War Memorial will be diverted at Kannagi Statue to turn left towards Bharathi Salai, passing through Bells Road Junction and Victoria Hostel Road. Heavy and light commercial vehicles will not be permitted on Kamarajar Salai towards the Lighthouse from 1.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Specific areas have been earmarked for the public visiting Marina Beach to park their vehicles.
The Greater Chennai Police has also announced elaborate security arrangements, with around 16,000 police personnel and 1,500 home guards on duty. Temporary mini control rooms, police assistance booths, ambulances, fire engines, and rescue teams will be deployed on January 16 to ensure safety.
To accommodate the influx of visitors, the Metropolitan Transport Corporation will operate 500 additional special buses on January 16. These buses will ply on various routes in addition to the regular buses, in and around Chennai such as Mamallapuram, Kovalam, MGM, Vandalur Zoo, Guindy Children’s Play Park, and Marina Beach. MTC has also appointed special officers, employees, and checking inspectors to safely board and alight passengers from the buses and to regulate traffic.
