The season of the much-awaited Kanwar Yatra has begun. For those planning a road trip between Delhi and Haridwar in the coming days, it's important for you to know that authorities have announced extensive traffic restrictions. Kanwar Yatra is among north India's busiest pilgrimage corridors and lakhs of Kanwar Yatra devotees begin their annual journey to collect holy Ganga water from Haridwar. Every year, the Kanwar Yatra causes immense traffic jams on the route.
The restrictions, which come into effect in phases, will impact commuters, tourists, and commercial vehicles or anyone travelling between Delhi, western Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Heavy vehicles barred from July 30
According to the district administration in Muzaffarnagar, the movement of heavy vehicles on the Delhi-Haridwar National Highway as well as the Ganga Canal Road will be prohibited from July 30 onwards. During the annual yatra, thousands of pilgrims walk along these routes carrying kanwars filled with holy water collected from the Ganga in Haridwar.
District Magistrate Umesh Mishra said the phased restrictions have been introduced to ensure the smooth movement of pilgrims.
Complete vehicle ban from August 4 to August 12
The stricter phase of the traffic plan starts on August 4. All categories of vehicles will be banned from using the Delhi-Haridwar National Highway and the Ganga Canal Road until August 12. Only emergency services will operate.
The restrictions are likely to affect travellers heading to Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun and several destinations across Uttarakhand.
Safety arrangements intensified
To avoid any mishaps during this time, authorities have also strengthened safety measures along the routes. Police divers will be stationed at major bathing ghats along the Ganga Canal Road. Additional police deployment, crowd management teams and traffic personnel have also been planned across key stretches.
On the other hand, Delhi administration has already issued detailed operational directions for Kanwar Yatra 2026 . Delhi Traffic Police has also released route advisories and designated traditional corridors for Kanwariyas passing through the national capital.
What travellers should do
Avoid the Delhi-Haridwar highway between August 4 and August 12.
Check the latest official traffic advisories
Allow extra travel time
Expect delays
Consider alternate highways
For travellers, the coming fortnight will require careful planning. Whether you're driving to Uttarakhand for a holiday or commuting between Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh, checking official traffic updates before leaving home could save several hours on the road and help avoid unexpected diversions.
Sources: Muzaffarnagar District Administration/Traffic Police advisory (via PTI), Delhi Traffic Police advisories
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