G20 Summit Triggers Comprehensive Traffic Advisory in Delhi: Restrictions and Diversions to Prevail

With the much-awaited G20 summit drawing near, the Delhi Traffic Police have released a comprehensive guide focused on guaranteeing seamless proceedings throughout the occasion. The summit is slated to occur from September 8 to September 10, with the bustling national capital chosen as its host.

New Delhi : As the highly anticipated G20 summit approaches, the Delhi Traffic Police have unveiled an extensive advisory aimed at ensuring smooth operations during the event, scheduled to take place from September 8 to September 10. The national capital is set to host this prominent gathering, with the newly-constructed Bharat Mandapam convention centre at Pragati Maidan serving as the summit venue under India's presidency.

“Anticipating the convergence of high-profile dignitaries and delegates, the Delhi Traffic Police have announced a series of traffic restrictions and diversions to be imposed in the New Delhi area, commencing from the night of September 7 and extending until September 10”, Special Commissioner of Police, Traffic, SS Yadav said.

While residents of the New Delhi area will retain their mobility, individuals originating from other districts within Delhi or visiting from external locations will be required to furnish valid hotel reservations to gain entry into the restricted zone. A stern caution has also been issued by the traffic police against venturing into markets within the New Delhi vicinity on September 8, 9, and 10.

During the summit period, cargo trucks will be disallowed from entering Delhi, with a redirection plan established to channel them onto the Eastern and Western peripheral expressways. Notably, vehicles engaged in essential services, including ambulances, will be exempted from these traffic constraints. However, a closure will be enforced on key roadways, including Mathura Road, Bhairon Marg, and Purana Qila Road. Vehicles, excluding ambulances and Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses, will be strictly prohibited within the New Delhi area, necessitating the temporary closure of malls and markets therein.

Travelers intending to access the airport or railway stations between September 8 and 10 have been advised to embark on their journeys ahead of schedule to pre-empt any inconvenience arising from the traffic management measures.

Officials said that intestate buses will be allowed to enter Delhi but not allowed to terminate at the Inter-state Bus Terminals. "For ambulance assist service, people can call 6828400604. The service will be launched from the night of September 7," Aalap Patel, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic, New Delhi said.

In light of the anticipated disruptions, the Delhi Metro has emerged as a recommended mode of travel for those requiring transportation during the summit days. Despite the implementation of the traffic advisories, Delhi Metro services will persist; however, stations situated in the New Delhi precinct, such as Supreme Court, Khan Market, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat, are anticipated to remain shuttered for the summit's duration.

Recognizing the significance of accessible information during this time, the Delhi Traffic Police have launched a virtual helpdesk tailored to the G20 summit. This resource is designed to furnish users with vital information pertaining to available transportation services, ambulance accessibility, and police assistance.

Distinguished leaders and statesmen from across the globe are poised to participate in the G20 summit. Among the esteemed attendees are United States President Joe Biden, Chinese Premier Xi Jinping, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and French President Emmanuel Macron. The delegates are scheduled to arrive in India on September 9, with an honorary gala dinner arranged in their honour on that very day. The summit will culminate with the attendees' visit to Rajghat on September 10, encapsulating a memorable sequence of discussions and diplomatic engagements.

According to officials, 10,000 police personnel will be on ground to ensure smooth traffic movement in the city during the summit which will be held over September 9 and 10 at the International Convention Centre at Pragati Maidan.