City police announced extensive traffic restrictions and special parking arrangements on Monday ahead of Navy Day celebrations scheduled along the coastal stretch later this week, with officials urging residents to plan travel in advance to avoid congestion. The curbs, which will affect several arterial and beachfront roads, are intended to manage the heavy flow of visitors expected to attend public demonstrations, rehearsals, and ceremonial events conducted by the Indian Navy.

Major Restrictions Planned on Coastal Stretch

The traffic curbs will be in effect across key waterfront corridors, including RK Beach Road, Kailasagiri junctions, and entry routes leading to the Naval Base rehearsal area.

Officials say the restrictions are temporary but essential for ensuring safety and operational smoothness.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) P. Anil Kumar said the movement of both private and commercial vehicles will be regulated before and during the Navy Day programme.

“Large crowds are expected, especially on December 4. We must keep specific lanes clear for Navy convoys, emergency vehicles, and crowd-management teams,” he said.

Timings and Advisory Issued for Commuters

Authorities announced that traffic restrictions will begin 24 hours before the main event and may extend into the following day, depending on crowd dispersal.

Key stretches may be completely closed to civilian vehicles during rehearsals and the ceremonial event.

Officials advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel along the beachfront and to rely on alternative corridors such as the Highway BRTS Road and MVP Double Road.

Public transport frequency is expected to increase on selected routes to ease movement.

“We request the public to cooperate,” Anil Kumar said. “Security and logistical preparations for Navy Day require planned traffic diversions.”

Special Parking Zones to Manage Influx

To accommodate visitors, authorities designated several large-capacity parking zones away from the main event road.

These include spaces near the Andhra University grounds, sector-based parking pockets in MVP Colony, and temporary parking areas marked near the Port Stadium.

Shuttle services have been arranged from these lots to minimize pedestrian congestion.

Each parking zone will have signboards, barricading, and personnel guiding vehicle entry and exit.

Municipal Commissioner G. Lakshmi Prasad said the arrangements aim to reduce roadside parking, which often becomes a safety hazard during major public events.

“We want visitors to enjoy the celebrations without worrying about traffic snarls,” he said.

Security Measures Tightened Across Venue

In addition to traffic regulation, police and Navy officials are coordinating a multi-layered security plan.

The beachfront, which will host operational demonstrations, is expected to be under both aerial and ground surveillance.

Security teams will manage access points, ensuring that visitors do not enter restricted zones.

Explosive detection squads, naval police teams, and local law enforcement units will be stationed across the venue.

A senior naval officer said the Navy is conducting regular joint briefings with police to streamline responsibilities.

“Our priority is operational safety. Public enthusiasm is always high during Navy Day, but crowd management is equally important,” he said.

Navy Day: A Growing Public Event

Navy Day, observed on December 4 each year, commemorates the Indian Navy’s role in Operation Trident during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

In recent years, Visakhapatnam has emerged as a key venue due to its status as the headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command.

The celebrations include live operational demonstrations, aircraft fly-pasts, aerobatic displays, naval ship viewing, and cultural showcases.

Rehearsals typically draw thousands of spectators even before the main event.

Last year’s Navy Day celebrations witnessed an estimated turnout of over 150,000 people along the beach stretch.

Officials expect similar or higher numbers this year, prompting the proactive traffic planning.

Residents Urged to Use Public Transport

City authorities encouraged visitors to rely on buses, shared transport, and two-wheelers to reduce congestion.

Ride-share operators are coordinating with the traffic police to ensure designated pickup and drop-off points.

“Private cars create choke points near the venue,” a senior traffic inspector said.

“We are setting up clearly demarcated pedestrian pathways to avoid mixing crowds with moving vehicles.”

The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Transport Authority said additional buses would run from major hubs, including Gajuwaka, NAD, Maddilapalem, and Pendurthi.

Local Businesses Expect Surge in Footfall

Restaurants, cafes, and shops along the coast anticipate increased customer flow due to the Navy Day festivities.

Several establishments have coordinated with authorities to ensure delivery vehicles comply with restricted hours.

A beachside restaurant owner said that while traffic curbs may pose temporary challenges, the celebrations typically bring strong business.

“Navy Day is one of the busiest weekends of the year for us,” he said. “We adjust timings based on police guidelines.”

Tour operators also expect higher demand for guided tours and city sightseeing packages, particularly from out-of-town visitors.

Emergency Access Lanes to Remain Clear

Officials stressed the importance of keeping designated emergency lanes free from civilian vehicles.

Ambulances, patrol units, and fire response teams will use these corridors throughout the day.

Any vehicle found violating the restrictions may be towed or fined, authorities said.

“We will be firm. Safety cannot be compromised,” the DCP said.

Public Response Mixed but Largely Supportive

Commuters working along the coast say they expect delays but welcome the advance announcements.

Some residents expressed concern about the limited alternative routes.

A daily commuter from MVP Colony said she appreciated the clarity in the police advisory.

“It helps to know timings early. I can plan my office commute accordingly,” she said.

Another resident said the restrictions were inconvenient but necessary.

“These events showcase the Navy’s strength. A little disruption is understandable,” he said.

Officials Seek Public Cooperation

The police urged people to follow signage, avoid unregulated parking, and cooperate with officers stationed across the venue.

Public announcements will be made through radio channels, social media, and local news outlets.

“We are working to strike a balance between security and convenience,” Anil Kumar said.

“Public cooperation is crucial for the success of such large-scale events.”

Looking Ahead

Navy Day celebrations are expected to boost tourism and public engagement with the armed forces.

The city’s coordinated traffic and parking plan reflects ongoing efforts to manage large gatherings safely and efficiently.

Authorities say they will review the traffic flow in real-time and make adjustments as needed.

With increased surveillance, designated parking, and clear diversions, officials hope to ensure that the celebrations proceed smoothly for residents and visitors alike.