Delhi Independence Day 2026: Red Fort Rehearsal Held As Security, Traffic Curbs Tighten

Delhi hosted a full dress rehearsal at the historic Red Fort on Thursday as officials completed preparations for the 80th Independence Day programme.

The rehearsal took place against the backdrop of heightened security across several parts of the national Capital.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver his Independence Day address from the Red Fort on August 15, with authorities expecting significant crowds around the venue.

The large-scale event has prompted officials to introduce extensive security checks and restrictions on vehicle movement.

Shahdara DCP Rajendra Prasad Meena said the district required special attention because it shares multiple border points with Uttar Pradesh.

Police have increased security at seven entry points connecting Shahdara with Ghaziabad. Restrictions at these points came into effect from 10 PM on Wednesday.

Officers have strengthened the existing security network by establishing temporary pickets at additional locations.

Authorities have given particular attention to the Khadar area along the Yamuna River behind the Red Fort.

Police teams are maintaining round-the-clock patrols in the area as part of the security plan for the Independence Day programme.

Traffic Police Zone-2 Additional Commissioner of Police Dinesh Kumar Gupta said authorities had implemented restrictions at Delhi’s border points.

Officials have barred commercial vehicles from using several restricted entry routes, while allowing essential commodity carriers to continue their journeys.

Delhi traffic authorities have worked with their counterparts in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to divert vehicles before they reach the Capital’s borders.

The move aims to prevent long queues and reduce congestion at major entry points.

Traffic authorities have established several diversion points to regulate vehicle movement during the celebrations.

Restrictions have also been introduced along C-Hexagon, Tilak Marg, the Lutyens’ Zone and other VIP routes because of scheduled movements.

Traffic personnel are managing important intersections to guide commuters and keep traffic moving smoothly.

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