Lahore traffic plan announced as Data Darbar Urs and Chehlum events begin
Major roads to remain closed
According to the Lahore Traffic Police, a detailed traffic management plan has been introduced for the three-day religious events.
Traffic will not be allowed from Kutchery Chowk, Bhatti Chowk and Pir Makki towards Data Darbar. The Lower Mall Road closure will remain in place from District Courts Chowk to the Pir Makki U-turn to ensure the safe movement of pilgrims and mourners.
Officials have urged motorists to follow the updated Lahore traffic advisory and avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas.
Alternative routes announced
To reduce traffic congestion, several alternative routes have been arranged.
Vehicles travelling from Shahdara towards Lower Mall Road will be diverted through Azadi Chowk towards Railway Station. Traffic from Niazi Shaheed Chowk will be redirected to Bund Road and Saggian.
Drivers coming from Kutchery Chowk will be guided towards Outfall Road, while vehicles from the Circular Road area will be allowed to travel through Mori Gate, Urdu Bazaar and Kutchery Road.
The Lahore Traffic Police said motorists should carefully follow the diversion signs to avoid delays.
Also read: Karachi traffic plan issued as MA Jinnah Road closes for Chehlum procession
Restrictions near Data Darbar
Authorities confirmed that no traffic will be allowed to enter Data Darbar or Lower Mall Road from District Courts Chowk, the DIG Operations Office, Government College University, Rettigan, Bilal Ganj, Beri Wala, Mori Gate, Taxali Chowk and Azadi Chowk.
Because of Data Darbar Urs and Chehlum Lahore, officials expect a large number of visitors, making these restrictions necessary for public safety.
The Lower Mall Road closure is expected to remain one of the busiest traffic restrictions during the celebrations.
Special arrangements for milk supply and parking
Special routes have also been designated for milk supply vehicles, handcarts and rickshaws.
Milk transport coming from Kasur, Kahna, Burki Road, Bedian Road and GT Road will use Ring Road and the Azadi Flyover to reach distribution points.
The Lahore Traffic Police has also established five dedicated parking areas for visitors attending Data Darbar Urs.
Hundreds of officers deployed
To ensure smooth traffic management, authorities have deployed 5 DSPs, 111 traffic inspectors and around 900 traffic wardens under the supervision of SSP City Zone Maqsood Lone.
In addition, 15 forklifts and four breakdown vehicles will remain on standby to remove illegally parked vehicles and clear blocked roads.
Officials said the Lahore traffic advisory will continue to be updated through the Rasta FM service and the Rasta mobile application.
Also read: Metro bus service suspended in Lahore due to Data Darbar Urs
Public urged to plan travel
Residents have been advised to plan their journeys before leaving home and use alternative routes wherever possible.
The Lahore Traffic Police has also asked people to contact the emergency helpline 15 if they need traffic guidance during Chehlum Lahore or while travelling near Data Darbar Urs.
