As PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron arrive in the city today for the “India-France Year of Innovation” event at the Gateway of India, police have placed a 13-hour ban on heavy motor vehicles on the Western Express Highway (WEH).
The restriction will take effect from 8 am to 9 pm today on both sides of the highway, between the Vakola flyover and Dahisar Toll Naka. Trucks, trailers, and other heavy vehicles not allowed during this time.
No heavy vehicles allowed on WEH today, due to Macron Visit
The “India-France Year of Innovation” event at the Gateway of India runs from February 14 to February 22, with the main event scheduled for Tuesday.
The advisory issued to help with security arrangements and to avoid congestion on this key route connecting south Mumbai to the suburbs. While heavy vehicles will be banned, cars and other light vehicles still travel, though commuters may experience slow movement.
Aim to reduce traffic
“To avoid traffic congestion on the Western Express Highway during the dignitaries’ visit, we have announced the restrictions. Four-wheelers and other vehicles can use the highway as usual,” a traffic police official stated.
In South Mumbai, two sections closed to all vehicles from 2 pm to 9 pm. This includes Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Marg from Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Chowk (Regal Junction) and P Ramchandani Marg from Alva Chowk (North Court) to Adam Street Junction. Traffic redirected to alternate routes.
Emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire brigades, and police vehicles, are exempt from the restrictions. Government vehicles assigned for VVIP security, as well as those authorized by the traffic police for operational needs permitted. Police have warned that violators will face action under the relevant sections of the Motor Vehicles Act.
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