LUCKNOW, March 31 -- Heading to an IPL match in Lucknow this season will require fans to plan like they're catching a flight, as once a visitor leaves the premises, they cannot return; and reaching the stadium won't be easy either. In a set of restrictions, the Lucknow Police Commissionerate has turned match nights into high-security, high-control zones, with Shaheed Path sealed off for buses, autos, and e-rickshaws, and strict "no stop" corridors for taxis and city buses. Lucknow will host its first IPL match at Ekana stadium on Wednesday (April 1) between Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals. "The goal is to prevent gridlock near the stadium, and for fans, it means a carefully choreographed commute," said DCP Traffic Raveena Tyagi. According to a detailed advisory issued by Lucknow traffic police, there will be no re-entry into the stadium under any circumstances. Even stepping out briefly will cost you your seat for the rest of the match. "Entry gates will open three hours before the game and shut midway through the second innings, tightening the window for latecomers," read the Lucknow police's details. "Public and commercial buses are barred from Shaheed Path entirely, while autos and e-rickshaws are pushed far from the venue, with a 500-metre no pick-up/drop zone around Ahimamau. App-based cabs can operate, but cannot stop between Husadiya and Sushant Golf," it added. Private vehicles will also face restrictions. "Those without a valid parking pass will be directed to designated parking areas near malls and nearby offices, which are expected to fill up quickly. Vehicles parked illegally near the stadium will be towed or clamped," read the advisory. Even security personnel accompanying VIPs won't get inside without valid tickets. With matches starting at 7.30 pm, police have issued a clear advisory that is to avoid the 6-8 pm peak window or risk being stuck in diversions and delays. Lucknow will witness extensive traffic diversions on April 1 as authorities gear up for the IPL match at Ekana Stadium, with restrictions coming into force from 3 pm until the end of game. Police have warned of heavy congestion on Shaheed Path between 2pm and 9pm, and advised commuters, especially those heading towards Kanpur, Amausi, and expressways, to avoid the stretch altogether. According to the traffic police, key routes including Shaheed Path, Sultanpur Road, Kanpur Road, and Rae Bareli Road will face major curbs, especially for heavy vehicles, buses, and commercial traffic. Several entry points towards Ahimamau and the stadium will be sealed, with vehicles being redirected through alternative routes such as Kisan Path and inner city roads. Commuters from areas like Kamta, Husadiya, and Gosain Ganj will not be able to access Shaheed Path directly and will instead be diverted via multiple junctions, significantly increasing travel time. Traffic from Sultanpur Road will also be restricted near Ahimamau, with vehicles rerouted near Lulu Mall. Emergency services, including ambulances and fire vehicles, will be allowed on restricted routes if necessary. Authorities have urged residents to follow advisories and use alternative routes to avoid inconvenience....