Grand illumination, drone show trigger traffic chaos in Mysuru

Grand illumination and the crowds returning after the Dasara drone show triggered massive traffic snarls across Mysuru on Saturday night, bringing vehicular movement to a crawl in several key areas and keeping police on their toes till around midnight.

The worst congestion was reported in the city centre, particularly around the Mysuru Palace and Dasara Exhibition grounds, where the spectacular illumination drew large crowds. Roads leading to and around the Palace witnessed a steady influx of vehicles as people arrived to view the illuminated Palace, streets and heritage structures, and later headed home after the drone show organised at the Torchlight Parade Grounds.

Heavy rush was also witnessed around the railway station and the Sub-urban Bus Terminal, with vehicles converging on the busy transport hubs amid the festive rush. Cars and two-wheelers lined up on roads, while traffic moved at a snail’s pace on several stretches.

The Saturday traffic situation posed a major challenge for traffic police personnel, who had a tough time clearing the congestion.

The traffic snarls highlighted the pressure on the city’s roads during the Dasara festivities, particularly on nights when the illumination and major attractions draw large crowds.

With the grand illumination continuing to attract visitors, managing traffic around the Palace and other major attractions remains a key challenge for the police during the festival. The next two days will be even challenging for the traffic police due to Dasara finale.