New Delhi: Delhi is set for a hectic weekend as the city hosts the 18th BRICS Summit from September 11 to 13. With foreign leaders and their delegations arriving in the capital, several parts of Delhi are seeing tighter security, traffic diversions and restrictions.
For ordinary residents, the biggest impact is likely to be on daily travel. More than 35 roads and important stretches may face restrictions at different times, while traffic authorities have identified 22 diversion points to manage the movement of VIP convoys.
Several busy roads, including Mathura Road, Sardar Patel Marg, Janpath, Ashoka Road, Barakhamba Road, Tolstoy Marg, Niti Marg, APJ Abdul Kalam Road and Africa Avenue Road, are among those expected to see traffic restrictions or diversions.
The situation could change quickly depending on the movement of visiting leaders. Even roads that remain open may see traffic being stopped briefly when VIP convoys pass through.
Schools and offices
To reduce traffic pressure and help with security arrangements, Delhi government and central government offices are closed on September 11. Schools across the capital are also shut on Friday.
Private offices have not been ordered to close, but employees have been advised to work from home wherever possible. This is expected to keep at least some commuters off the roads during the summit.
Metro services continue
The good news for Delhi commuters is that Delhi Metro services are running. Authorities are encouraging people to use the Metro wherever possible, particularly for journeys through areas likely to experience road restrictions.
Buses, taxis, autorickshaws and app based cab services are also operating, although commuters should be prepared for delays and diversions.
One exception is the Delhi Metro Museum at Supreme Court station, which will remain closed from September 11 to 13.
What about Connaught Place?
Connaught Place remains open during the summit. However, getting there could take longer because several roads around central Delhi are affected by traffic arrangements.
With the main summit events taking place at Bharat Mandapam on September 12 and 13, security and traffic measures are expected to remain in place through the weekend.
For anyone travelling through central or south Delhi, the safest bet is to avoid unnecessary road journeys, use the Metro where possible and check traffic advisories before leaving home. Airport and railway travellers should also leave early, as temporary road closures and VIP movements could add significantly to travel time.
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