Vehicular traffic along Marina Park Road, from Light House Restaurant to Girls School Chowk, will remain suspended for a week starting December 15 to facilitate the smooth conduct of the Island Music Festival, according to a notification issued by the District Magistrate, South Andaman.
The traffic restriction will remain in force till December 21 and has been imposed under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, read with an earlier administrative notification. The closure is aimed at ensuring safety, crowd management and logistical arrangements for the festival, which is expected to draw large public attendance.
The Island Music Festival will feature performances by the internationally acclaimed Japanese drumming troupe Drum Tao on December 19 and 20. Officials said the road closure would allow uninterrupted movement of performers, event staff and emergency services, while also providing space for stage installations and audience management.
Authorities indicated that Marina Park and its surrounding areas are likely to witness increased pedestrian movement during the festival period. Restricting vehicular traffic along the identified stretch is intended to minimise congestion and reduce the risk of accidents during peak event hours.
The District Administration has appealed to commuters and local residents to cooperate with the temporary traffic arrangement and use alternative routes during the closure period. Traffic police personnel are expected to be deployed in nearby areas to manage diversions and assist road users.
Residents and businesses located along the affected stretch have been informed in advance to help them plan accordingly. Officials stated that essential services would be allowed regulated access wherever required, subject to security and safety considerations.
The Island Music Festival is part of a broader cultural initiative aimed at promoting the Islands as a destination for international cultural exchange and live performances. The administration said adequate arrangements were being made to ensure that the event proceeds without inconvenience to the public.
Commuters have been advised to follow traffic advisories issued during the festival period and remain patient as authorities work to balance event requirements with public convenience.
