Bhubaneswar: Ahead of the T20 International cricket match between India and South Africa at Cuttack’s Barabati Stadium on December 9, 2025, the Bhubaneswar–Cuttack Police Commissionerate on Sunday issued a detailed traffic advisory to ensure smooth movement and security during the high-profile event. The advisory will also be in force during the players’ practice session scheduled for December 8.
Anticipating heavy traffic on routes leading to the stadium due to team movement and match-related activities, police have urged commuters to plan their travel in advance and strictly follow instructions issued by traffic personnel. The restrictions have been imposed in the interest of public safety and effective traffic regulation under provisions of the Odisha Urban Police Act and the Commissionerate’s Traffic and Public Order Regulations
As per the advisory, traffic restrictions will be enforced from 12 noon to 9 pm on December 8 during the practice session, and from 8 am on December 9 until the end of the match or complete dispersal of the crowd. Several routes around Barabati Stadium will be regulated, with entry restricted to pass-holder vehicles only on key stretches.
Vehicles approaching from Mata Matha will be diverted to park at the Lower Baliyatra Ground, while pass-holder vehicles will be guided to the Upper Baliyatra Ground via Bamboo Depot. Traffic from Howrah Motor Chhak and Mani Sahoo Chhak will be diverted through the Mahanadi Ring Road. Similar restrictions and diversions have been announced from Biju Pattanaik Chhak, Chandi Chhak, Madhusudan Statue Chhak, Lions Eye Hospital Chhak and other surrounding areas to avoid congestion near the stadium.
Heavy vehicle movement will be strictly prohibited on the Mahanadi and Kathajodi Ring Roads and within city limits from 8 am to 2 am on match day. Additionally, on December 8, movement of heavy vehicles on specific stretches of the Mahanadi Ring Road will remain completely restricted during practice hours.
Parking arrangements have also been clearly demarcated. The Upper Baliyatra Ground will be reserved for VIPs, while the Lower Baliyatra Ground will cater to general spectators. Members of the Odisha Cricket Association and dignitaries will park at the OCA Cricket Academy Ground, while designated areas near Horse Gate, OCA Club and Xavier’s School have been earmarked for TV crews and pass holders.
The restrictions, however, will not apply to emergency services such as ambulances, fire engines, police vehicles and those carrying essential goods.
Appealing for public cooperation, police officials advised commuters and spectators to use alternate routes wherever possible. “For smooth traffic management during this period, cooperation from the general public is solicited,” the Commissionerate said, assuring all necessary measures to minimize inconvenience during the international fixture.