Independence Day 2026: Free metro, cloak rooms and wheelchairs for visitors

The government has announced a range of visitor facilities for the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. The measures are aimed at improving access, comfort and movement for invitees and the public.The government has announced a range of visitor facilities for the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. (Photo: PTI)The government has made several arrangements to ensure a smoother and more convenient experience for visitors attending the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on August 15. From cloak rooms and wheelchairs to free metro services and rain ponchos, multiple facilities have been planned for the public.25 CLOAK ROOMS AT SIX LOCATIONSFollowing positive feedback during the Republic Day celebrations, cloak room facilities have been expanded. A total of 25 cloak rooms will be available at six locations to help visitors safely store their belongings during the event.200 VOLUNTEERS TO HELP VISITORSAround 200 volunteers, including 100 NCC cadets and 100 volunteers from MY Bharat, will assist visitors in reaching their designated enclosures. They will be stationed along the routes leading to the Red Fort and can be easily identified by visitors.WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANCE AT METRO STATIONSNCC cadets will also be deployed at metro stations and parking areas to assist visitors who require wheelchairs. The arrangement is aimed at making movement easier for senior citizens and people needing additional assistance. FREE METRO SERVICES FROM 4 AMMetro services will begin at 4 am on August 15 to help people reach the venue on time. Metro travel will be provided free of cost to invitees, with QR codes being shared through e-invitations.PARKING AND PEDESTRIAN FACILITIESParking will be available at Parade Ground for visitors carrying valid parking labels. To improve pedestrian movement between upper and lower Subhash Marg, stronger ramps and additional stairs have also been installed.LIVE TRAFFIC UPDATES ON MAPS On the day of the main ceremony, traffic restrictions and diversions will be reflected on Google Maps and Mappls Maps. Citizens can use these platforms to plan their routes and avoid restricted roads.RAIN PONCHOS FOR INVITEESWith weather conditions expected to remain unpredictable, rain ponchos will be provided to invitees at Madhav Das Park and August 15 Park. Dignitaries at the Rampart will also be provided with rain protection.INVITATION CARD HIGHLIGHTS SEVA TEERTHThis year's Independence Day invitation card features Seva Teerth and the Dharam Chakra, adding a symbolic touch to the arrangements for the national celebration.With these measures, authorities are focusing on making the Independence Day event more accessible, organised and comfortable for visitors, while also ensuring smoother movement around the Red Fort.- EndsPublished By: Chaitanya DhawanPublished On: Aug 14, 2026 09:10 IST