Bengaluru: The Bengaluru–Mangaluru highway has been closed for 12 hours on April 15 due to heightened security arrangements for Narendra Modi’s visit to Adichunchanagiri Math in Mandya district. The restriction, in force from 6 am to 6 pm, has caused significant disruption to traffic across key routes in Karnataka.
Authorities implemented the closure as part of extensive security measures to ensure the safe movement of the Prime Minister’s convoy and manage large crowds expected during the visit.
When will the highway reopen?
The Bengaluru–Mangaluru highway is scheduled to reopen at 6 pm on April 15, once the Prime Minister’s programme concludes and security clearance is completed.
Until then, vehicular movement remains completely restricted on affected stretches, and commuters are advised to avoid these routes during the closure period.
Traffic disruptions across key routes
The shutdown has impacted major national highways, including NH 75-A and NH 150-A, halting traffic along one of the most important corridors connecting Bengaluru to coastal Karnataka.
Areas affected on the Bengaluru–Mangaluru stretch include Nelamangala, Kunigal, Yadiyur, Bellur Cross, BG Nagar, and Kadabahalli. These are critical transit points for both daily commuters and long-distance travellers.
Similarly, NH 150-A has also witnessed disruptions, affecting connectivity towards Srirangapatna, Pandavapura, Nagamangala, and Bindiganavile. The complete halt in vehicular movement has led to delays and diversions across nearby routes.
Strict security measures in place
The Karnataka police and district administration have enforced tight security protocols in Mandya district to facilitate the Prime Minister’s visit. These include route sanitisation, traffic regulation, and crowd management.
In addition to the highway closure, authorities have imposed a temporary ban on liquor sales and transportation within an 8-kilometre radius of Bellur Town Panchayat between 6 am and 6 pm. The restriction is enforced under the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965, and violations may attract strict penalties.
Further, the use of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles has been prohibited within a 12-kilometre radius of Bellur during the same time frame, citing security concerns.
Advisory for commuters and residents
Officials have urged residents and travellers to cooperate with the restrictions and plan their journeys in advance. Commuters are advised to use alternative routes wherever possible to avoid inconvenience.
The Mandya district administration has emphasised that these measures are temporary and necessary to maintain public safety during the high-profile visit.
Public transport services and emergency vehicles are being managed carefully, but delays are expected due to the scale of restrictions.
Impact on daily travel
The closure has particularly affected office-goers, transport operators, and interstate travellers relying on the Bengaluru–Mangaluru corridor. With both highways affected, rerouting has become challenging, leading to congestion on alternative roads.
Transport authorities are monitoring the situation closely and are expected to gradually restore normal traffic flow once restrictions are lifted in the evening.
Conclusion
The temporary closure of the Bengaluru–Mangaluru highway highlights the scale of security arrangements required for high-level visits. While the disruption has impacted thousands of commuters, authorities have assured that normal traffic will resume by 6 pm. Travellers are advised to remain cautious, follow official updates, and plan accordingly to minimise inconvenience.