AI Impact Summit 2026 Underway in New Delhi with Enhanced Security and Traffic Measures
The AI Impact Summit 2026 is currently taking place at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from February 16 to 20, 2026. Organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, this five-day event has led to heightened security protocols and increased VIP movement across several central corridors of the capital city.
Delhi Traffic Police Issues Comprehensive Advisory for Commuters
In response to the summit, the Delhi Traffic Police has released a detailed traffic advisory to inform commuters about which routes to take and which to avoid. Authorities have implemented extensive mobility measures to manage congestion and ensure uninterrupted access around the venue and adjoining areas. The Delhi Traffic Police stated on X, "Traffic Advisory: In view of AI Impact Summit-2026 held from 16 Feb to 20 Feb, 2026, certain traffic restrictions will be effective in Delhi. Commuters are requested to avoid the mentioned routes and plan their journey accordingly."
Key Routes Expected to Experience Congestion
Traffic flow is anticipated to slow down in and around the diplomatic enclave and central administrative zones due to VIP movement. According to the advisory, the following stretches may witness significant congestion:
- Mathura Road (from Subramanian Bharti Marg to Lodhi Road Flyover)
- Akbar Road
- Janpath
- Shanti Path
- Satya Marg
- Africa Avenue
- APJ Abdul Kalam Road
- Tilak Marg
- Bhagwan Das Road
These corridors connect crucial government buildings, embassies, and event venues, making them particularly sensitive during international summits. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting also posted on X, advising delegates to use public transport due to limited parking and revised gate access at Bharat Mandapam and Sushma Swaraj Bhawan.
Route Recommendations for Airport and Railway Commuters
While no blanket restrictions have been imposed on airport or railway access, authorities have recommended specific corridors to avoid delays. Passengers traveling to Indira Gandhi International Airport are advised to use NH-48 and the Sector-22 Dwarka Tunnel to bypass central congestion. Those heading to major railway hubs, such as New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station, and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station, should prefer the Ring Road, Ashram Chowk, and Vande Mataram Marg corridors. Additionally, non-Delhi-bound vehicles will be diverted to the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways to reduce traffic pressure in the city centre.
Access and Parking Arrangements for Bharat Mandapam
The summit is hosted at Bharat Mandapam, the newly developed international exhibition and convention centre within the Pragati Maidan complex. Due to parking space constraints near the venue, attendees are strongly encouraged to use the Delhi Metro, which will operate as per schedule. The nearest metro station is Pragati Maidan, with Gate 10 providing easy access to Bharat Mandapam. For those using private vehicles, parking has been allocated at Delhi Zoo, National Stadium, and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, with shuttle services available to transport delegates to and from the summit venue.
Additional Preparations for Smooth Event Conduct
Officials have coordinated with telecom operators to optimize mobile network coverage around Bharat Mandapam during the event, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for participants and media. As New Delhi hosts one of its most significant technology summits of the year, authorities emphasize early travel planning, adherence to advisories, and cooperation with traffic personnel to minimize inconvenience throughout the five-day event.
