Mangaluru: The Mangaluru City Police have issued a traffic advisory and announced diversions and parking restrictions around Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple from October 11 to 21 in view of the Mangaluru Dasara and Navaratri celebrations. Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes to avoid congestion as large numbers of devotees and visitors are expected to visit the temple during the 11-day festivities.

According to the advisory, traffic congestion is likely around the temple and along Kulur Ferry Road every day from 4 pm onwards. The restrictions are intended to ensure smoother traffic movement and reduce inconvenience to commuters during the festival period.

Traffic Congestion Expected Around Kudroli Temple

Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple is a major centre of the Mangaluru Dasara celebrations, attracting devotees and visitors from across the coastal region and beyond.

With religious rituals and cultural programmes scheduled throughout the festival, the number of vehicles approaching the temple is expected to increase, particularly during the evening hours.

Police have identified several junctions and stretches where traffic congestion may occur, including Car Street Balaji Junction, New Chitra Junction, Alake Bridge, the Kudroli temple entrance, Durgamahal Junction and Mannagudda Junction.

Commuters travelling through these areas have been urged to plan their journeys in advance and follow instructions issued by traffic police personnel deployed at key locations.

Alternative Routes for Motorists

To minimise congestion and keep vehicles moving, police have advised motorists to use designated alternative routes during the festival.

The following diversions have been announced:

  • Kottara Chowki to Car Street: Motorists should travel via the Lalbagh–PVS–Navabharath route.
  • Car Street to Kulur Ferry Road: Vehicles should use the Navabharath–PVS route.

Commuters are advised to follow these routes, particularly during the evening rush, when traffic near the temple is expected to be heavy.

Motorists travelling to other parts of the city should also allow additional time for their journeys and follow directions from traffic personnel at diversion points.

Parking Prohibited Along Kulur Ferry Road

As part of the traffic management arrangements, parking will be prohibited on both sides of the road between New Chitra Junction and Ladyhill.

The restriction also applies to connecting roads along the specified stretch. The measure is intended to prevent parked vehicles from narrowing the available carriageway and obstructing the movement of traffic.

Residents and visitors have been instructed to park only in designated parking areas. Vehicles parked in restricted locations could contribute to congestion and inconvenience for other road users.

Police have urged motorists to cooperate with the restrictions and avoid stopping or parking along roads where prohibitions are in force.

Dasara Celebrations Continue Until October 21

The traffic advisory coincides with the annual Mangaluru Dasara and Navaratri celebrations at Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Kshetra. The festival features religious ceremonies, cultural programmes, competitions and traditional celebrations.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is scheduled to inaugurate the Mangaluru Dasara Mahotsava on October 12 at 6.30 pm. The historic Dasara Shobhayatra is scheduled to begin at 4 pm on October 21.

The temple has been decorated for the celebrations, with religious rituals and cultural events planned throughout the festival period. The expected turnout is one of the reasons police have asked commuters to take precautions while travelling around Kudroli.

Police Appeal to the Public

The Mangaluru City Police have appealed to residents, devotees and visitors to cooperate with the traffic arrangements throughout the celebrations.

Commuters are advised to:

  • Plan journeys in advance, especially when travelling near Kudroli after 4 pm.
  • Use the prescribed alternative routes.
  • Avoid parking on restricted stretches and connecting roads.
  • Park only in designated areas.
  • Follow directions from traffic police personnel on duty.

The advisory will remain in effect during the specified festival period, from October 11 to 21. Following the diversions and parking restrictions will help reduce congestion and make travel safer and more convenient for residents and visitors attending Mangaluru Dasara.