The Delhi Traffic Police has issued a comprehensive advisory for commuters, announcing significant road restrictions and diversions across the national capital on Friday, December 5. This advisory comes in light of a high-profile "special event"—the official state visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Traffic Restrictions and No-Parking Zones
President Putin arrived in Delhi on Thursday, December 4, marking his first official trip to India since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022. His last visit was in December 2021. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received the Russian leader at Delhi Airport upon his arrival.
To ensure security and smooth movement for the visiting dignitary, the police have designated several key routes as restricted zones. These areas will function as no-parking zones and will face intermittent closures during specific time slots on Friday.
Affected Routes and Timings
The stretches where traffic will be regulated include:
- Mother Teresa Crescent
- Teen Murti Marg
- Akbar Road
- MLNP (Man Singh Road)
- Janpath Road
- Firoz Shah Road
- Sikandra Road
- Windsor Place
- Mandi House
- Mathura Road
- Bhairon Marg
The restrictions will be enforced during four crucial time windows: 10:00–11:30 am, 11:00 am–12:30 pm, 03:00–05:00 pm, and 05:00–09:00 pm.
Commuters Advised to Plan Ahead
In addition to the listed routes, the police have urged people to avoid a broader set of areas in New Delhi to prevent inconvenience. This list includes Vande Matram Marg, Yashwant Place, Maulana Azad Road, K. Kamraj Marg, Raisina Road, Rafi Marg, DDU Marg, and Asaf Ali Road.
The advisory explicitly recommends that citizens use public transport, strictly follow directions from traffic personnel on the ground, and plan their travel to inter-state bus terminals, railway stations, and airports well in advance.
Significance of the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit
The traffic disruptions are due to the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, where President Putin will hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House. The bilateral meeting carries substantial geopolitical and economic weight, with several agreements expected to be signed to deepen partnership in trade, economy, healthcare, academia, culture, and media.
This visit is particularly significant as it occurs amidst a notable strain in India's relations with the United States, highlighting the enduring strategic importance of the India-Russia relationship.
Detailed Itinerary for December 5
The day's tightly scheduled events, which are causing the traffic curbs, are as follows:
- Ceremonial Reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan: 11:00 AM.
- Wreath Laying at Rajghat: 11:30 AM.
- Meeting with PM Modi at Hyderabad House: 11:50 AM.
- Press Statements: 1:50 PM at Hyderabad House.
- Meeting with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan: 7:00 PM.
Delhi residents are advised to stay updated through official channels and factor in these major restrictions while planning their Friday commute.
