Delhi Traffic Conditions Show Modest Improvement Following Severe Wednesday Gridlock
Traffic conditions in the national capital displayed a noticeable improvement on Thursday, a day after Delhi was severely impacted by extensive traffic snarls that persisted throughout the day. The congestion on Thursday was primarily confined to the morning and evening peak hours, offering some relief to weary commuters.
Contrast Between Wednesday's Chaos and Thursday's Relative Calm
On Wednesday, the situation was particularly dire, with nearly forty high-level movements recorded by 4 pm, leading to traffic that never eased up. In stark contrast, Thursday afternoon presented visibly clearer roads across many parts of the city. However, this respite was temporary as traffic began building up significantly around 4 pm, especially near the Akshardham area.
Traffic Restrictions Implemented for AI Impact Summit–2026
The Delhi Traffic Police imposed specific restrictions between 5 pm and 9 pm to facilitate the AI Impact Summit–2026, which slowed vehicular movement across central Delhi. A comprehensive traffic advisory was issued, urging commuters to plan their journeys in advance and avoid the affected stretches to minimize inconvenience.
The list of restricted roads included:
- Sardar Patel Marg
- Mother Teresa Crescent
- Teen Murti Marg
- Akbar Road
- Janpath
- Windsor Place
- Tees January Marg
- Prithviraj Road
- Rajesh Pilot Marg
- Subramaniam Bharti Marg
- Mathura Road (between Lodhi Flyover and Dr Dinesh Chandra Dalmia Chowk)
- Bhairon Marg
- Shanti Path
- Africa Avenue
- Satya Marg
- Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg
- Gurgaon Road
- Parade Road
Technological Measures and Commuter Frustrations
In a proactive move, the traffic police directed Google Maps to display only alternative routes during the restriction period. This measure aimed to divert traffic but resulted in heavier flow on the Ring Road stretch parallel to Mathura Road. Despite these efforts, frustrated commuters took to social media to report long jams near Mother Teresa Road, Dhaula Kuan, and the Indraprastha Park flyover.
Many individuals recounted experiences of standing in traffic for up to one hour at certain spots, highlighting the persistent challenges faced during peak hours.
Future Outlook and Expected Relief
According to sources, seven dignitaries are scheduled to depart later tonight, a development that is anticipated to ease traffic pressure significantly from Friday onward. This expected reduction in high-level movements could provide much-needed relief to Delhi's road network, allowing for smoother commutes in the coming days.
