In view of the 18th BRICS Summit to be held at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital Delhi on September 12-13, Delhi Traffic Police has issued a traffic advisory for the people. Delhi Traffic Police on Thursday clarified that there will be no complete lockdown in the city. However, during the movement of VVIP convoys from September 10 to September 14, traffic on some roads may be stopped for a while or diverted.
According to the police, how long the traffic interruption will last will depend on the security arrangements and movement of VVIP people. Arrangements in the areas where there will be VVIP movement will be decided in due course of time. That means the police will control the traffic in these areas as per their own. The advisory states that where security arrangements permit, normal traffic will continue.
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Which roads will be affected?
The major roads affected include Mathura Road, Sardar Patel Marg, Shanti Path, Janpath, Ashoka Road, Barakhamba Road, Tolstoy Marg, Africa Avenue Road, Niti Marg, Panchsheel Marg and APJ Abdul Kalam Road. During the convoy rehearsal on Wednesday evening, route diversions were implemented on more than 35 roads and people had to get stuck in traffic for hours.
Impact on Noida to Delhi route
This is likely to have a special impact on passengers traveling between Noida and Central Delhi, East Delhi and Central regions. Commuters going from Dwarka and West Delhi towards Dhaula Kuan, airport and South Delhi may also be affected. The movement of the Egyptian delegation between the hotel in Saket and central Delhi may put additional pressure on the already congested parts of South Delhi. The traffic police had earlier suggested shifting the delegation's stay to Central Delhi.
What did you say about examinations?
Residents living in controlled areas will be allowed to move subject to security arrangements. They have been advised to carry valid identity card and address proof and follow the instructions of the deployed policemen. Candidates appearing for UPSC, NDA, CDS and other examinations have been advised to check their examination centers and routes in advance, carry admit card and identity card and leave home with sufficient time. In case of any genuine medical emergency, passengers should immediately inform the nearest traffic personnel.
Metro, Bus and Cab Services
Delhi Metro will continue to operate during this period but if necessary due to security reasons, temporary restrictions may be imposed at some stations or entry-exit points. Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and city buses will also run, but routes may be changed or cut depending on the situation. Temporary changes in the routes, entry points or termination points of inter-state buses are also possible.
Autos, taxis and app-based cab services will continue to operate, but their pick-up and drop-off arrangements may be affected in controlled or restricted areas. Delivery services may also face similar restrictions in controlled areas. Movement of milk, medicines and other essential services will be facilitated as per the arrangements in place, while trucks and heavy vehicles may face special restrictions regarding entry timings and routes.
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The reason for avoiding fake rumors
Around 4,800 traffic police personnel have been deployed for the summit arrangements. Officials said the scale of the summit should be kept in mind while assessing traffic disruptions, as India is hosting leaders of 11 BRICS member states and 10 partner countries, including other invited delegations.
The traffic police has held meetings with online map service and online cab service companies, who will share information about restrictions, route changes and alternative routes in real time during the summit on their platforms. Parking will not be allowed on restricted and safety-sensitive roads and motorists have been advised to use designated parking areas. The traffic police have cautioned people against circulating unverified messages on social media claiming 'Dilli Bandh' or complete road closure and have asked them to trust only official updates.