New Delhi: Ahead of two major international summits in the capital, the Delhi Traffic Police will conduct a large-scale rehearsal on Tuesday between noon and 3 pm to test movement and diversion plans across central Delhi and adjoining corridors. Commuters are expected to face at least 21 diversion points during this exercise.
Summit Details and Venue
The India-Africa Forum Summit is scheduled from May 28 to 31, followed by the International Big Cats Alliance Summit from June 1 to 2. Both events will be primarily held at Bharat Mandapam. Traffic in Lutyens' Delhi is likely to be regulated on these six days, with the strictest restrictions expected on May 31, the main day of the India-Africa summit. However, as it falls on a Sunday, officials believe the lower volume of office and commercial traffic will result in reduced congestion in central Delhi.
Hybrid Traffic Model
From May 28 to June 1, traffic police will deploy a hybrid traffic model that combines short-duration traffic stoppages at select intersections with wider diversions and dedicated corridors. These corridors will connect east, west, north, and south Delhi to the New Delhi district.
Rehearsal Blueprint
According to the blueprint of Tuesday's rehearsal, movement on several major roads around Pragati Maidan and New Delhi district will be regulated. S P Marg and Mathura Road are likely to be affected and may remain temporarily closed. Entry into New Delhi district during this exercise will mainly be allowed through Ring Road and Vande Mataram Marg.
- North to South Delhi: Commuters traveling from north Delhi towards southern parts of the city are advised to use Ring Road via Rajghat and Sarai Kale Khan.
- West Delhi: Those from west Delhi can take the Dhaula Kuan-Moti Bagh-Bikaji Cama Place route.
- East to South Delhi: Commuters from east Delhi heading south are advised to use Ring Road through Sarai Kale Khan and the Barapullah-Ashram corridor.
Parking and Shuttle Services
People visiting Bharat Mandapam during Tuesday's rehearsal have been directed to park at the Bhairon Mandir parking area and use only Gates 4 and 10 for entry. Shuttle services from ITPO gates and nearby metro stations will operate to reduce crowding around the venue.
Commuters are encouraged to rely on Google Maps and MapMyIndia for live traffic updates and alternate routes. Residents have been advised to leave at least 30 minutes earlier than usual and avoid roads adjacent to Bharat Mandapam unless absolutely necessary. Real-time traffic updates will be shared through the traffic police's social media handles and the helpline number 1095.
This rehearsal aims to ensure smooth traffic management during the high-profile summits, minimizing disruptions for commuters while maintaining security protocols.
