Mumbai will witness major traffic restrictions today as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron attend high-level events in the city. The Mumbai Traffic Police have issued a detailed advisory to ensure the smooth movement of VVIP convoys and maintain security arrangements.
Several key roads in South Mumbai and stretches of the Western Express Highway (WEH) will face diversions, vehicle restrictions, and parking bans from morning till night. Commuters are advised to plan their travel carefully and expect delays, especially during peak hours.
Mumbai Traffic Advisory Today (8 AM – 9 PM)
The special traffic arrangements will remain in place from 8 AM to 9 PM. During these hours, authorities will regulate vehicle movement along routes connected to the VVIP convoy. Heavy motor vehicles will not be allowed on certain stretches of the Western Express Highway, and multiple roads in South Mumbai will either remain closed or operate under diversions.
In view of the India–France Year of Innovation event at Gateway of India (14–22 February 2026; main event on 17 February), traffic congestion is expected on adjoining roads. On 17 February 2026, from 14:00 to 21:00 hrs, the following traffic arrangements will be in place. pic.twitter.com/GZMogE95Wi
— Mumbai Traffic Police (@MTPHereToHelp) February 15, 2026
Traffic police personnel will be deployed at key junctions to guide motorists and prevent congestion. The advisory aims to balance public convenience with high-level security requirements.
Why is Mumbai Traffic Restricted Today?
The restrictions are in place because President Emmanuel Macron is on an official visit to India and will attend events in Mumbai alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi. High-security movement of dignitaries requires secure corridors, traffic-free routes, and controlled access points.
Authorities typically enforce temporary road closures and vehicle bans during such visits to ensure safety and avoid disruptions to scheduled programmes. The visit also includes diplomatic engagements and participation in India–France collaborative initiatives.
Mumbai Traffic Advisory: Which Routes Are Diverted?
Traffic diversions are primarily concentrated in South Mumbai, especially near Colaba and the surrounding areas. Key roads affected include:
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Marg near Regal Junction
- P. Ramchandani Marg between major connecting junctions
- Roads leading toward the Gateway of India
- Internal streets near event venues
Vehicles approaching these areas will be redirected to alternative routes. Signage and traffic personnel will assist commuters in navigating diversions.
Mumbai Traffic Advisory: Routes to Avoid
Motorists should avoid travelling through:
- Colaba and the surrounding heritage zones
- Roads near the Gateway of India
- Key stretches of South Mumbai during peak movement hours
These areas may experience heavy congestion, restricted access, or complete closures at specific intervals depending on convoy movement timings.
Mumbai Traffic Advisory: Western Express Highway Restrictions
The Western Express Highway (WEH) — one of Mumbai’s busiest north-south corridors — will see a ban on heavy motor vehicles between 8 AM and 9 PM. The affected stretch reportedly includes areas between Vakola and Dahisar.
This restriction applies mainly to trucks, trailers, and other heavy commercial vehicles. Light vehicles such as cars, taxis, and two-wheelers can continue to use the highway but may face slower traffic due to diversions and increased load on parallel roads.
Since WEH connects suburbs like Borivali, Malad, Goregaon, Andheri, and Bandra, commuters travelling toward the airport or South Mumbai should allow extra travel time.
Mumbai Traffic Advisory: No Parking Zones & Public Transport Impact
Authorities have declared temporary no-parking zones along key roads to prevent bottlenecks. Vehicles parked in restricted areas may be towed.
Public transport services such as BEST buses may experience minor route adjustments or short-term diversions near South Mumbai. Taxi and auto-rickshaw movement may also face limited access in high-security zones.
However, local train services are expected to operate normally and may serve as a more reliable option for commuters today.
Mumbai Traffic Advisory: Which Vehicles Are Exempt from the Ban?
The heavy vehicle ban does not apply to:
- Ambulances
- Fire brigade vehicles
- Police and security vehicles
- Government-authorised vehicles connected to the event
These vehicles will continue to operate to ensure emergency services remain unaffected.
Mumbai Traffic Advisory: How the Western Express Highway Impacts Daily Travel?
The Western Express Highway is a lifeline for Mumbai’s daily commuters. It carries thousands of vehicles every hour and connects residential suburbs to commercial hubs and the airport.
Any restriction on this highway creates ripple effects across feeder roads such as SV Road, Link Road, and internal suburban streets. The heavy vehicle ban aims to reduce congestion and create smoother movement for VVIP convoys, but commuters should still expect slower traffic flow during peak times.
Why the Modi–Macron Visit Matters?
President Emmanuel Macron’s visit highlights the strengthening ties between India and France. He is participating in bilateral discussions and collaborative initiatives alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The visit focuses on enhancing cooperation in innovation, defence, technology, and global strategic partnerships. Such diplomatic engagements often involve high-security arrangements, which directly impact city traffic management.
Mumbai Traffic Advisory: Advisory for Mumbai Commuters
Mumbai Traffic Police have advised citizens to:
- Start early and plan routes in advance
- Use public transport where possible
- Follow official updates and traffic advisories
- Avoid restricted zones during peak hours
- Cooperate with traffic personnel on duty
Commuters should remain patient and factor in additional travel time. With careful planning, residents can minimize inconvenience and navigate the city smoothly during today’s high-profile visit.
