New years eve traffic advisory by Chennai police: Marina, Elliots beach roads closed, flyover shut tonight
New year 2026 | The traffic police have urged all travellers and motorists to plan their routes in advance, utilize public transportation where possible, and strictly adhere to the announced restrictions and diversions to ensure a safe and orderly celebration for everyone.
Chennai: In anticipation of large-scale New Year celebrations, the Greater Chennai Traffic Police have announced extensive traffic diversions and restrictions across the city, particularly around Marina Beach and Elliot's Beach. The measures, designed to ensure public safety and manage massive crowds, will be in effect from the evening of December 31st until the morning of January 1st, 2026.
Beach Road Closures and Parking Prohibitions
Key roads will be completely closed to vehicle traffic to accommodate pedestrian movement and celebrations. Kamarajar Road near Marina Beach and the beach inner road will be shut down from 7:00 PM on December 31st to 6:00 AM on January 1st. Parking on the beach inner road will be prohibited starting from 7:00 AM on December 31st. The traffic police have designated alternative parking areas, including Swami Sivananda Road and the Island Grounds.
Mandatory Exit Routes and Diversions
To streamline traffic flow, the police have implemented a controlled exit system for vehicles around Marina Beach. All vehicles will only be permitted to exit the area via the Lighthouse junction. Specific diversions have also been mapped out: vehicles traveling from Adyar towards Kamarajar Road will be diverted at the Greenways Road and South Canal junction. They will be redirected via Mandaveli, R.A. Puram 2nd Main Road, R.K. Mutt Road, and Luz Mylapore.
Citywide Flyover Closures and Elliot's Beach Restrictions
In a significant citywide measure, all flyovers in Chennai will be closed to traffic from 10:00 PM on December 31st until 6:00 AM on January 1st. This blanket restriction aims to prevent congestion and ensure emergency vehicle access.
Similar crowd management protocols will be enforced at Elliot's Beach in Besant Nagar. Vehicles will not be allowed to proceed towards 6th Avenue from 8:00 PM on December 31st until 6:00 AM on January 1st.
The traffic police have urged all travellers and motorists to plan their routes in advance, utilize public transportation where possible, and strictly adhere to the announced restrictions and diversions to ensure a safe and orderly celebration for everyone.