Mangaluru: In view of the Karavali Utsava being organised by the Dakshina Kannada district administration from December 20 to January 2, 2026, the Mangaluru City Police have issued a detailed traffic advisory and set of guidelines to ensure smooth vehicular movement and public safety across the city during the festive period.

The annual Karavali Utsava, a major cultural and tourism event on the coastal calendar, will be held at the Karavali Grounds and adjoining areas every day after 5 pm. With a wide range of cultural programmes, exhibitions and public events scheduled daily, the police anticipate a significant influx of dignitaries, artistes, local residents and visitors from neighbouring districts and states. As a result, traffic congestion is expected on several key roads, especially during evening hours.

To prevent bottlenecks and inconvenience to commuters, the police commissioner has issued an official press release outlining traffic restrictions, parking regulations and designated parking facilities for those attending the event.

Parking restrictions near Karavali Grounds

As part of the traffic management plan, the police have imposed a strict ban on parking along both sides of the road from Lalbagh to the Karavali Grounds. This stretch is expected to witness heavy vehicular movement due to its proximity to the main festival venue and surrounding arterial roads.

According to the advisory, unauthorised parking in this zone could severely disrupt traffic flow and emergency vehicle access. Vehicles found violating the parking ban may be towed away, and necessary legal action could be initiated as per traffic regulations.

The police have urged the public to strictly adhere to the parking restrictions and avoid stopping vehicles along narrow roads, junctions and entry points leading to the festival venue.

Designated parking locations announced

To accommodate the large number of vehicles expected during the festival, the police department, in coordination with the district administration, has arranged multiple designated parking areas for different categories of vehicles.

Parking facilities for cars have been made available at the Urwa Market Ground. For both two-wheelers and cars, parking has been arranged near Gandhinagar Government School (Press Club), Ladyhill Church premises, Mannagudda Canara School Ground and the premises of Thimmapa Hotel.

Exclusive parking for two-wheelers has been provided at the Scout Guide Hall premises behind the Karavali Grounds, along Urwa Market Road and on Hat Hill Road. These locations have been selected to ensure easy access to the venue while keeping major thoroughfares free from congestion.

Members of the public attending the programmes have been instructed to park their vehicles only at these designated locations and avoid roadside parking under any circumstances.

Signboards and traffic management measures

To assist commuters and festival-goers, parking signboards and directional boards have been installed along the programme routes and nearby roads. These signboards clearly indicate parking zones, no-parking areas and entry and exit routes.

Traffic police personnel will be deployed at key junctions and approach roads to regulate traffic, guide motorists and ensure compliance with the advisory. Temporary traffic diversions may also be implemented during peak hours depending on crowd density and vehicle volume.

The police have requested motorists to follow the instructions displayed on signboards and cooperate with on-duty personnel for hassle-free movement.

Appeal for public cooperation

Issuing the advisory, the police commissioner has appealed to residents and visitors to extend full cooperation to the authorities to ensure the smooth conduct of Karavali Utsava. The press release emphasised that effective traffic management is essential not only for the convenience of attendees but also for emergency services and daily commuters who may not be part of the festivities.

The police have also advised the public to plan their travel in advance, use public transport wherever possible and avoid unnecessary vehicle usage in and around the Karavali Grounds during festival hours.

Conclusion

With Karavali Utsava expected to draw large crowds over nearly two weeks, the traffic advisory issued by the Mangaluru City Police aims to strike a balance between celebration and civic order. By adhering to parking guidelines, respecting traffic restrictions and cooperating with authorities, the public can contribute to a safe, enjoyable and well-organised festival experience for everyone involved.