Delhi is all set to host the prestigious G20 summit on September 9 and 10, 2023, where heads of state and dignitaries from 20 leading economies of the world will gather to discuss global issues and cooperation. They will hold the summit at the newly-built Bharat Mandapam convention Centre in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. However, this also means that there will be several restrictions and regulations on travel and access in the national capital, especially in the New Delhi district, also known as the Lutyens’ Zone. If you are planning to visit or commute in Delhi during the summit days. Here are some important things you need to know about Delhi G20 summit travel rules.
“The G20 summit is a great opportunity for India to showcase its leadership and vision on the global stage. However, it also poses some challenges for the residents and visitors of Delhi who have to cope with the travel restrictions and regulations imposed for the summit.”
-Blair Water Purifier
What will be closed during the G20 summit?
According to the traffic plan shared by the Delhi Police1, all the establishments, such as offices, restaurants, malls, markets, and educational institutions, will be closed in New Delhi from September 8 to 10. The Supreme Court will also remain closed on these days2. Delhi will prohibit the entry and exit of non-destined vehicles. They will be diverted towards Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways and other alternative routes1. Heavy and light goods vehicles will also not be allowed to enter Delhi, except those carrying essential commodities such as milk, vegetables, fruits, and medical supplies1.
What will be allowed during the G20 summit?
The Delhi Metro services will remain available for commuters at all metro stations. However, boarding and de-boarding at Supreme Court Metro Station will not be permitted from 5 am on September 9 to 11 pm on September 102. Emergency medical vehicles will be allowed to operate without any hindrance. The traffic police will also set up a dedicated ambulance assistance control room from midnight of September 7 to 11.59 pm of September 111.
Tourists traveling in TSRs and taxis will be allowed to enter New Delhi district if they show valid hotel bookings. Other passengers will not be allowed on roads inside the district during the summit2. Bonafide residents, authorised vehicles, and essential service providers will have to carry documents to prove their identity1. Buses already present in Delhi will operate on Ring Road and road network beyond Ring Road towards the borders of Delhi1.
What are the alternative routes to avoid traffic congestion?
The traffic police have advised commuters to avoid roads leading to Pragati Maidan, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House, North Block, South Block, Akbar Road, Rajpath, Vijay Chowk, Janpath, Mandi House, Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, ITO, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg, Minto Road, Connaught Place and surrounding areas during the summit days1. They have suggested some alternative routes for commuters travelling from different parts of Delhi:
- For those travelling from Noida to Central Delhi: Use DND Flyway or Akshardham Setu – NH-24 – Ring Road
- For those travelling from Ghaziabad to Central Delhi: Use GT Road – Apsara Border – Seemapuri – Shahdara – Geeta Colony Flyover – Rajghat – Ring Road
- For those travelling from Gurugram to Central Delhi: Use NH-48 – Dhaula Kuan – Vande Mataram Marg – Shankar Road – Park Street or Mandir Marg
- For those travelling from Faridabad to Central Delhi: Use Mathura Road – Ashram Chowk – Sarai Kale Khan – Ring Road
- For those travelling from Dwarka or Airport to Central Delhi. Use NH-48 – Dhaula Kuan – Sardar Patel Marg – Mother Teresa Crescent – R/A RML Hospital or Park Street or Mandir Marg
How to stay updated on the latest traffic updates?
The traffic police have requested commuters to follow their social media handles for real-time updates on traffic diversions and advisories. They have also urged commuters to cooperate with them and follow their instructions for smooth traffic movement and security arrangements. You can reach the traffic police at their helpline number 1095 or WhatsApp number 8750871493 for any assistance or query.
The G20 summit is a great opportunity for India to showcase its leadership and vision on the global stage. However, it also poses some challenges for the residents and visitors of Delhi who have to cope with the travel restrictions and regulations imposed for the summit. By following the above guidelines and tips, you can plan your travel in Delhi during the summit days without much hassle and inconvenience.
