Delhi Traffic Police issued a traffic advisory directing commuters to avoid specific roads during a summit rehearsal at Bharat Mandapam on Tuesday [1].
These restrictions are critical for residents and commuters in east and south Delhi, as the closures affect major arteries used for daily transit. The measures aim to ensure safety and a smooth traffic flow while the city prepares for upcoming high-level diplomatic events.
The advisory was active on Tuesday, May 18, 2024, specifically between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. [2], [3]. During this window, the police implemented curbs and diversions to accommodate the rehearsal process at the venue [4].
Authorities identified several affected areas, primarily impacting east and south Delhi. Key roads subject to restrictions included Sardar Patel Marg and Mathura Road [1], [4]. To minimize congestion, the Delhi Traffic Police suggested that drivers utilize alternative routes, including the Ring Road via Sarai Kale Khan and the Barapullah-Ashram Chowk corridor [1], [4].
The rehearsal is part of the preparation for upcoming summits scheduled at the Bharat Mandapam facility [1], [2]. These events include the International Big Cat Alliance summit and the India-Africa Forum summit [2].
Commuters were encouraged to plan their travel accordingly to avoid the restricted zones during the three-hour window [2], [3]. The police said these diversions were necessary to manage the volume of traffic and ensure the security of the rehearsal proceedings [1], [2].
“Delhi Traffic Police issued a traffic advisory directing commuters to avoid specific roads during a summit rehearsal at Bharat Mandapam.”
The implementation of these traffic diversions highlights the logistical challenges of hosting major international summits in a densely populated metropolis. By conducting rehearsals and issuing timed advisories, the city attempts to balance the security requirements of visiting dignitaries with the necessity of maintaining urban mobility in Delhi's high-traffic corridors.
