Ahmedabad, January 12, 2026 — Ahmedabad city is witnessing one of its most intensely secured and traffic-restricted days in recent history as Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosts German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during his first official visit to India. The visit coincides with multiple cultural, diplomatic, and economic events, including the International Kite Festival at Sabarmati Riverfront, bilateral talks in Gandhinagar, and public inaugurations. The presence of these high-profile leaders has prompted maximum security deployment, major road closures, timed traffic diversions, and strict movement restrictions across central Ahmedabad and parts of Gandhinagar.
This report provides a detailed hour-by-hour overview, lists road closures, explains security deployments, highlights commuter impacts, and outlines the leaders’ itinerary for the day.
1. Overview: Why Ahmedabad Is on High Security Alert Today
Today marks a significant moment for India-Germany relations, as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visits Gujarat and is hosted by PM Narendra Modi. This visit focuses on strengthening strategic partnerships in trade, defense, technology, sustainability, and culture.
The day’s events include:
- A visit to Sabarmati Ashram
- Inauguration of the International Kite Festival
- Bilateral talks in Gandhinagar
- Visits to heritage sites and skill development centers
The city’s police and security forces have implemented maximum alert protocols, especially around all venues that host the leaders.
2. Security Measures & Deployment
To ensure the safety of the leaders and smooth conduct of events, Ahmedabad authorities have deployed a multi-layered security system.
2.1 Security Personnel
Security personnel from the following agencies are actively deployed:
- Special Protection Group (SPG)
- Crime Branch
- Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS)
- Special Operations Group (SOG)
- Ahmedabad City Police
- Traffic Police and Rapid Response Teams
Heavy security is stationed at:
- Sabarmati Ashram
- Sabarmati Riverfront
- Metro stations used by the leaders
- Gandhinagar’s Mahatma Mandir Convention Center
Buildings overlooking these areas are under continuous monitoring, and rooftop surveillance teams are stationed for added security.
2.2 Enhanced Surveillance
- CCTV cameras and drone surveillance have been intensified along the Riverfront and central city corridors.
- Sniffer dog units, bomb disposal squads, and quick reaction teams are on standby.
- Security checks are active at hotels, public spaces, and event venues to ensure no unauthorized access.
3. Leaders’ Itinerary and Events
Morning: 7:00 am – 10:30 am
- 7:00 am: Sabarmati Riverfront West stretch is closed to vehicles to secure the area.
- 9:30 am: PM Modi and Chancellor Merz visit Sabarmati Ashram, pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, and sign the visitors’ book.
- 10:00 am: Both leaders inaugurate the International Kite Festival 2026, featuring participants from India and abroad.
Midday: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
- 11:15 am: Travel to Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar, for high-level bilateral talks covering trade, defense, technology, and strategic cooperation.
- 12:30 pm: Joint press briefings and statements are scheduled.
Afternoon & Evening
- Chancellor Merz may visit heritage and skill-development sites in Ahmedabad.
- PM Modi may inaugurate additional infrastructure projects, including Metro Phase II expansion.
- Evening formal events and dinners are expected before the Chancellor departs.
4. Road Closures & Traffic Restrictions
Authorities have announced extensive road closures and diversions. Key restrictions include:
4.1 Sabarmati Riverfront
- West stretch from Vadaj Crematorium to Ambedkar Bridge is closed from 7:00 am to 12:00 noon.
- Alternate routes: Vadaj Circle, Usmanpura Crossroads, Paldi, Town Hall, Bata Showroom.
4.2 Ashram & Metro Access Points
- Roads near Sabarmati Ashram are partially restricted.
- Metro stations around Ashram and Riverfront have restricted parking; pick-up/drop-off zones are designated.
4.3 City Diversions
Traffic is diverted to:
- Ashram Road
- CG Road (with restrictions during peak hours)
- Usmanpura Road
- Paldi Road
- Town Hall and Income Tax Overbridge junctions
Traffic police are stationed at intersections to ensure smooth diversion and prevent congestion.
4.4 Public Transport Adjustments
- Buses and BRTS services follow alternate schedules to avoid restricted zones.
- Metro services continue with minor adjustments at selected stations.
5. Impact on Commuters & City Life
5.1 Delays & Commute Challenges
- Increased travel time across central and western Ahmedabad.
- Delayed public transport due to road closures.
- Higher congestion on diverted routes.
5.2 Business & Public Spaces
- Street vendors along major routes have been temporarily relocated.
- Shops near Sabarmati Riverfront may operate on restricted hours.
5.3 Public Safety Measures
- Barricades installed along Riverfront and festival areas.
- First-aid and emergency services are stationed.
- Fire safety teams monitor large gatherings at Kite Festival and other events.
6. Cultural & Diplomatic Highlights
6.1 International Kite Festival
- Part of Gujarat’s Uttarayan celebrations, attracting domestic and international participants.
- Symbolizes cultural diplomacy, showcasing Indian tradition to global leaders.
6.2 Bilateral Talks
- Topics: Trade, defense, clean energy, technology partnerships, and strategic collaboration.
- Goal: Strengthening India-Germany relations and enhancing economic cooperation.
6.3 Infrastructure Boost
- PM Modi inaugurates Phase II of Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar Metro, enhancing local connectivity.
7. Government & Police Advisory for Residents
Authorities recommend:
- Respect barricades and follow traffic police directions.
- Use public transport where possible.
- Avoid crowded zones unless attending official events.
- Keep belongings secure and report any suspicious activity.
8. Public Sentiment & City Reaction
- Citizens express pride in hosting international dignitaries and showcasing Ahmedabad’s culture.
- Temporary inconvenience is noted in traffic delays and longer commutes.
- City undertook cleaning, beautification, and hoarding removal in preparation for the visit.
9. Summary: Significance of the Visit
- Combines cultural diplomacy with strategic economic talks.
- Highlights Ahmedabad’s role as a hub for international engagement.
- Expected to strengthen India-Germany trade, defense, technology, and energy cooperation.
- Sets the stage for deeper collaborations in innovation, education, and sustainability.
Also Read: Ahmedabad Kite Festival 2026: PM Modi and German Chancellor to Attend
FAQs: PM Modi & German Chancellor Visit Ahmedabad – January 12, 2026
1. Why is Ahmedabad on high security alert today?
Ahmedabad is on high alert because PM Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz are visiting the city for cultural events, bilateral talks, and inaugurations. Maximum security measures have been deployed to ensure the safety of the leaders and the public.
2. Which areas in Ahmedabad are affected by road closures today?
Key areas affected include:
- Sabarmati Riverfront West stretch (Vadaj Crematorium to Ambedkar Bridge)
- Roads near Sabarmati Ashram
- Ashram Road, CG Road, Usmanpura Road, Paldi Road, Town Hall junctions
All these areas have timed closures, and traffic is diverted to alternate routes.
3. What are the traffic diversions in place?
Traffic is being diverted to:
- Vadaj Circle
- Usmanpura Crossroads
- Paldi Road
- Town Hall and Income Tax Overbridge junctions
- Bata Showroom Road
Public transport buses and BRTS services are running on alternate schedules, and Metro stations near event areas have adjusted access.
4. What is the itinerary of PM Modi and Chancellor Merz today?
- Morning: Visit Sabarmati Ashram, pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, and inaugurate International Kite Festival.
- Midday: Travel to Gandhinagar’s Mahatma Mandir for high-level bilateral talks on trade, defense, technology, and strategic cooperation.
- Afternoon & Evening: Visit heritage and skill-development sites, inaugurate infrastructure projects including Metro Phase II, and attend formal events.
5. What security agencies are deployed in Ahmedabad today?
- Special Protection Group (SPG)
- Crime Branch
- Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS)
- Special Operations Group (SOG)
- Ahmedabad City Police
- Traffic Police and Rapid Response Teams
Additional security includes sniffer dogs, bomb disposal units, drone surveillance, CCTV monitoring, and rooftop observation teams.
6. How will public transport be affected?
- Buses and BRTS services are following alternate routes to avoid restricted areas.
- Metro stations near Sabarmati Ashram and Riverfront have designated pick-up and drop-off points; some services may experience minor delays.
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