Ayodhya Imposes Traffic Diversions Till 26 November; Heavy Vehicles Banned — Know the Routes Before You Travel

With preparations in full swing for the historic flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple on 25 November, the Ayodhya district administration has enforced an extensive traffic diversion plan across the city. The expected arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the anticipated surge of devotees have prompted strict movement restrictions from 23 November to 26 November.

Authorities have imposed a complete ban on heavy vehicles on all major approach routes to Ayodhya, while light vehicles may also face temporary diversions depending on crowd density. Emergency services such as ambulances will remain exempt.

Heavy Vehicles Completely Prohibited

From 23 November, 11 PM to 26 November, 8 PM, entry of heavy vehicles including trucks, buses, DCMs, and tractor-trolleys has been stopped on:

• Basti–Ayodhya Four-Lane Highway
• Lucknow–Barabanki–Ayodhya Highway
• Sitapur–Ayodhya Road
• Other connecting national highways leading to the temple town

Light vehicles may also be rerouted at short notice if required for crowd management.

Diversions & Closed Routes

Several internal city routes and intersections—such as Naya Gharsu–Gunjad Tor, Hanumangarhi Crossing, Lakshmaneshwar Chowk, and nearby entry points—have been temporarily sealed for security reasons.

Major Diversions

• Basti–Ayodhya Four-Lane: Heavy vehicles stopped from 23 Nov (11 PM) to 26 Nov (8 PM).
• Sitapur–Ayodhya Road: Direct entry into Ayodhya restricted from 23 Nov (6 PM) to 26 Nov (6 AM).
• Barabanki Route: Four-wheelers and heavy vehicles diverted; holding areas created for regulated entry.

Alternative Routes

• Heavy vehicles coming from Gorakhpur or Lucknow are being diverted via Barabanki–Purvanchal Expressway.
• Vehicles from Gonda and Bahraich will be rerouted through Mankapur and other outer bypass roads.

Travel Advisory for Pilgrims and Visitors

Travellers heading to Ayodhya between 23–26 November are advised to:

• Plan routes in advance
• Check diversion details and possible delays
• Use only designated alternative routes
• Verify real-time road conditions with local traffic authorities
• Expect temporary closures at key intersections inside the city

Both pedestrians and four-wheeler users are cautioned that certain city routes may remain closed without prior notice depending on security protocols.