Commuters navigating central Delhi on Friday, October 16, should prepare for significant travel delays and detours around Connaught Place and Lutyens' Delhi. The disruptions come in the wake of a planned demonstration called by Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke, who announced a Tiranga March converging at Connaught Place's Central Park. Anticipating substantial footfall and vehicular movement, traffic authorities have formulated dynamic diversion plans, warning that movement across prime stretches will become heavily restricted starting at 3 PM.
Central Park Closed for Public Access
As a preventive security step to regulate ground movements, authorities have closed Central Park at Connaught Place for a span of two consecutive days, encompassing both Friday and Saturday. Restricting entry to this iconic landmark is intended to maintain perimeter security and ensure public order while demonstrations are conducted. Extra personnel will be positioned around the outer and inner radial circles of Connaught Place to monitor developments and prevent unauthorized encampments.
Extensive Congestion Expected on 21 Key Corridors
Official communication shared by authorities via X regarding traffic arrangements highlights 21 vital arteries and junctions that are bound to bear the brunt of congestion and localized bottlenecks. These routes include
- Sansad Marg and Baba Kharak Singh Marg
- Shaheed Bhagat Singh Marg and Panchkuian Road
- Basant Lane, Chelmsford Road, and Minto Road
- Barakhamba Road, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, and Janpath
- Rail Bhawan, Rafi Marg, and 'C' Hexagon
- Mandi House, Patel Chowk, and Windsor Place
- Gole Dak Khana and Ashoka Road (from GPO to 'C' Hexagon)
- Tilak Marg, Tolstoy Marg, and Sikandra Road
Drivers who regularly traverse these stretches connecting North, Central, and South Delhi have been urged to modify their travel schedules and anticipate potential diversions at major roundabouts.
Advisory Urges Metro Commuting and Strict Parking Discipline
In order to mitigate severe gridlock on peripheral corridors, traffic officials have actively recommended that daily commuters switch to the Delhi Metro network and other forms of mass transit rather than using private four-wheelers. By lowering private vehicle volume on surrounding roads, congestion can be managed more efficiently. Motorists are directed to adhere strictly to the guidance of deployed personnel, follow physical detour signage, and avoid curbside parking. Vehicles left in non-designated spots will be subject to immediate towing and penalties. For real-time route updates or assistance, commuters can dial 1095 or 011-25844444.
