The Jakarta authorities will close several main roads in the capital to make way for hundreds of people taking part in a torch-lit parade to celebrate the Islamic New Year, 1 Muharram 1441 Hijri, on Saturday evening.

Some 2,600 people carrying torches will march from the Arjuna Wiwaha traffic circle to Hotel Indonesia traffic circle, both in Central Jakarta, at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.

“The torch-lit parade is part of the Jakarta Muharam Festival and there will be dances, religious songs and chants of praise to Prophet Muhammad,” Jakarta city secretary Saefullah said at City Hall on Thursday as reported by Antara.

He said there would also be sermons and mass prayers held during the event.

The festival will be held concurrently with the Halal Culinary Festival at two locations namely Jl. Kebon Kacang Raya and Jl. Imam Bonjol.

To ensure the event runs smoothly, over 300 officials from the Jakarta Transportation Agency will be deployed to manage the traffic flow during the road closures, Saefullah added.

The Jakarta administration will also provide parking spaces for people looking to enjoy the event.

“We strongly suggest residents use public transportation such as the MRT Jakarta, Transjakarta and Commuter Line services and avoid the traffic congestion to and from the locations,” he said.

Several ambassadors from countries with sister cities to Jakarta are expected to attend the Jakarta Muharram Festival.

Around 3,700 personnel from the Jakarta Police and Public Order Agency are being assigned to safeguard the event. (gis)

The road closures will affect the following streets:

East and west sides of Jl. MH Thamrin, from Sarinah to the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle. West side of Jl. Jenderal Sudirman, from Dukuh Atas to Hotel Indonesia traffic circle. Jl. Imam Bonjol, from Hotel Indonesia traffic circle to Jl. Agus Salim.

Traffic diversions will be as follows: