The authorities in Soreng district of Sikkim have issued a public advisory ahead of the 71st Maghey Sankranti Mela, which will be held at Jorethang–Nayabazar from January 14 to January 22, 2026. The mela is expected to draw a large number of visitors from different parts of the state and nearby areas. Because of this, the district police have announced traffic regulations to ensure smooth vehicle movement and public safety during the event. According to the advisory issued by the Superintendent of Police, Soreng District, the mela will be celebrated in a grand and traditional way, highlighting the cultural heritage and unity of the region. With thousands of visitors expected to gather at the venue and surrounding areas, the police have said that traffic congestion and crowd pressure are likely to increase during the festival days. To manage the situation, vehicles travelling to and from Gyalsing, Soreng, Rangpo, Singtam and Gangtok have been requested to use alternative routes.
The police have advised taxis and private vehicles to take the Kitchudumra–Namchi route when moving between Soreng District and other parts of Sikkim during the mela period. This arrangement will remain in force from January 14 to January 22, 2026. The advisory states that this step has been taken to reduce traffic build-up near Jorethang and Nayabazar and to make movement easier for both residents and visitors. Along with this advisory, a separate vehicle movement restriction order has also been issued under Section 159(2) of the Sikkim Police Act, 2008. As part of this order, heavy vehicles such as trucks, tippers, earthmovers and similar categories will not be allowed to move along certain routes in Nayabazar during the mela days. This restriction will remain in force for nine days, starting from 05:00 AM on January 14, 2026 until 01:00 AM on January 22, 2026. The restricted routes include the stretch from 8th Mile Budang to Akar Booth in Nayabazar, as well as the route from Rothak Bridge and Pipalay to Akar Booth. The police have clarified that the restriction does not apply to school buses, ambulances, fire and emergency service vehicles, disaster relief vehicles and troop carriers of paramilitary forces. These vehicles will be allowed to operate as usual in the interest of public welfare and emergency response.
The district police have said that the main aim of these measures is to maintain public convenience, ensure safety, and prevent traffic jams during the mela period. With more people expected to attend cultural programmes, stalls, and religious activities, the authorities want to avoid overcrowding and confusion on the roads. Motorists and commuters have been requested to cooperate and follow traffic instructions during the festival days.The mela is one of the most important traditional celebrations in the region. Every year, people gather at Jorethang–Nayabazar to offer prayers, meet relatives, enjoy local food, and take part in cultural functions. Local traders and small businesses also look forward to the festival period, as it brings more customers and business activity to the town.