UDUPI: Heavy vehicle movement on National Highway 66 between Udupi and Mangaluru will be restricted from 3 pm to 11 pm on October 21 in view of the grand procession marking the conclusion of Udupi-Uchila Dasara 2026. Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa T.K. has issued a traffic order directing heavy vehicles to use alternative routes to minimise congestion and ensure smooth movement for the public.
The annual festivities at Uchila Sri Mahalakshmi Temple, which began on October 11, will conclude on October 21 with a large procession. Anticipating heavy traffic along NH 66 during the event, the district administration has introduced temporary traffic restrictions based on a report submitted by the Superintendent of Police.
Alternative routes prescribed for heavy vehicles
Under the order, heavy vehicles travelling from Udupi towards Mangaluru must avoid the affected stretch of NH 66 between 3 pm and 11 pm on October 21.
These vehicles have been instructed to take the alternative route via Katapady–Shirva–Bellanne–Padubidri. The diversion is intended to reduce traffic pressure along the highway during the procession.
Vehicles travelling from Udupi towards Mangaluru International Airport have been directed to use the Katapady–Shirva–Bellanne–Mundoor route.
Truck, lorry and tanker operators have also been instructed to plan their journeys in accordance with the temporary restrictions.
Truck bays to be used until 9 pm
Heavy vehicles travelling through the Kundapur and Udupi areas must remain parked in designated truck bays until 9 pm on October 21. They may resume their journeys after the stipulated time, as specified in the order.
The measure is intended to prevent heavy vehicles from adding to congestion during the peak hours of the procession. Drivers and transport operators have been advised to account for the restrictions while planning their schedules.
Night buses permitted after 9 pm
Night passenger buses travelling from Udupi towards Bengaluru via Mangaluru have been directed to continue their journeys after 9 pm.
The order also specifies exemptions for VIP vehicles, government vehicles and emergency service vehicles. These categories will not be subject to the traffic restrictions imposed for the procession.
Passengers travelling by bus, motorists and transport operators are advised to check their routes and departure schedules in advance to avoid delays.
Order issued under Motor Vehicles Act
The traffic restrictions were imposed by Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Swaroopa T.K. on October 16 under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and Rule 221(5)(a) of the Karnataka Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
The temporary measures are aimed at facilitating the smooth conduct of the Udupi-Uchila Dasara procession while reducing inconvenience to road users.
With the festivities drawing to a close, the district administration is coordinating traffic arrangements to manage the expected movement of devotees and vehicles. Motorists travelling along NH 66 on October 21 should follow police directions and use the prescribed diversions where applicable.