Preparations Underway for 80th Independence Day Celebrations in New Delhi

As New Delhi gears up for the 80th Independence Day celebrations, a full dress rehearsal was conducted at the Red Fort, accompanied by heightened security and traffic restrictions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address is expected to draw large crowds, prompting extensive measures to ensure safety and manage movement in the capital. Authorities have implemented checkpoints and temporary pickets, particularly in sensitive areas, while issuing advisories to guide the public on affected routes. Stay informed about the preparations and security arrangements for this significant national event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 13, 2026, 13:49 IST

Full Dress Rehearsal at Red Fort

File image shows a full dress rehearsal at Delhi Red Fort ahead of 80th Independence day celebration

(Photo: X )

New Delhi, Aug 13: In preparation for the upcoming 80th Independence Day, a full dress rehearsal took place at the historic Red Fort in the national capital on Thursday.

These rehearsals were conducted with increased security measures and strict traffic management throughout the city.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to deliver his address from the Red Fort on August 15, which is anticipated to attract large crowds and necessitate significant movement restrictions in the capital.

Rajendra Prasad Meena, DCP of Shahdara, stated: "Today marked the full dress rehearsal. The Shahdara district is particularly sensitive due to its proximity to seven border points adjacent to Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh. Traffic at these locations was completely halted from 10:00 p.m. last night."

"In addition to our regular checkpoints, we have established temporary pickets at various locations. Emergency Response Vehicles and patrol units are actively monitoring their designated areas," he added.

The police official also noted that special security measures have been implemented along the Khadar side of the Yamuna River, located behind the Red Fort complex.

"We are conducting ongoing patrols in that area, which will persist until the main event on August 15," he mentioned.

Dinesh Kumar Gupta, Additional Commissioner of Police for Traffic Zone-2, indicated that restrictions were enforced at all border areas of the national capital by 10 p.m. the previous night.

"Commercial vehicles were prohibited from entering, with only those carrying essential goods allowed. We coordinated with authorities in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to divert vehicles before they reached the borders, thus preventing heavy congestion," he explained.

He further added that several diversion points have been established to manage traffic flow.

"Routes such as C-Hexagon, Tilak Marg, and areas within the Lutyens' Zone and VIP sections are under restrictions due to VIP movement. Our personnel are stationed at all relevant intersections," Gupta stated.

"We have issued a public advisory through various media outlets detailing the affected routes and suggesting alternatives for the public," he concluded.