New Delhi is set to witness a major technological upgrade in crowd and traffic management during Republic Day and Beating Retreat celebrations this year. For the first time, the Delhi Police, in coordination with the Ministry of Defence (MoD), has introduced a QR code–based parking system to streamline parking near Kartavya Path, where the grand national events will be held.
The new system will cover 22 designated parking lots and is expected to accommodate nearly 8,000 vehicles, making it easier for visitors to find the right parking space without confusion or delay.
How the QR-Based Parking System Will Work
According to Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) D K Gupta, the QR code facility will help commuters reach parking lots that are closest to their designated seating enclosures.
Once scanned, the QR code will:
◆Guide visitors to the appropriate parking lot
◆Show real-time parking availability
◆Reduce human intervention
◆Minimise confusion and traffic bottlenecks
From the assigned parking lot, visitors can comfortably walk to their seating enclosures at Kartavya Path.
“This will ensure that, like every year, guests do not face confusion while coming to watch the Republic Day parade on January 26 and the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29. The facility provides real-time data with no human intervention,” Gupta said.
A Big Relief for Republic Day Visitors
Finding parking near Kartavya Path during Republic Day celebrations has traditionally been a major challenge due to:
●Heavy security arrangements
●Road closures
●Large crowds
●Restricted access zones
The introduction of a QR-based system is expected to significantly ease this problem by offering a smooth, technology-driven solution for both visitors and traffic police.
Smart Policing Meets Smart Infrastructure
This move is being seen as a strong example of how technology is transforming public safety and urban mobility in the national capital. The system not only helps visitors but also enables the police to:
●Monitor parking flow in real-time
●Avoid congestion hotspots
●Improve response time
●Ensure better coordination between agencies
Officials believe this initiative will also reduce delays, improve visitor experience, and set new standards for managing large-scale national events.
A Model for Future National Events
If successful, the QR-based parking system could become a permanent feature for future major events in Delhi, including:
●Independence Day celebrations
●International summits
●Large political and cultural gatherings
It could also serve as a model for other cities across India hosting mass events.
Technology Driving a Smoother Republic Day Experience
With the Republic Day Parade being one of the most prestigious events in the country, the use of digital tools like QR-based parking reflects India’s growing focus on smart governance, public convenience, and tech-enabled policing.
As thousands of guests prepare to witness the grandeur of Republic Day 2026, this smart parking initiative promises a smoother, faster and more organised arrival at Kartavya Path.
