Planning to travel through Delhi over the next few days? Traffic movement could become unpredictable as the capital prepares for the BRICS Summit, with VVIP convoys expected to trigger temporary stoppages and diversions.
Delhi is preparing for the arrival of several foreign leaders for the BRICS Summit 2026, but the capital will not be under a blanket shutdown.
Delhi Traffic Police has said regular traffic will continue wherever security arrangements allow. However, commuters should be prepared for temporary restrictions whenever a VVIP convoy passes through an important route.
The duration of these stoppages cannot be predicted in advance. Depending on the security situation, traffic may be held for some time, diverted to alternative roads and released gradually after the convoy has moved through.
For people travelling to the airport, offices, hospitals or examination centres, this could make journey times considerably longer than usual.
Which Parts of Delhi Could See the Most Impact?
The traffic management plan covers more than 35 roads and 22 diversion points across the city.
Areas and routes connecting central Delhi, south Delhi, Dwarka, Dhaula Kuan, the airport, Noida and east Delhi could experience increased traffic during the summit period.
The impact may also extend to roads that are not directly restricted. When traffic is diverted from a major route, nearby roads can quickly become congested.
The special traffic arrangements are expected to remain in effect from September 10 to around September 14.
Airport Passengers Should Plan Extra Time
If you have a flight during the BRICS Summit, it would be wise to avoid leaving for the airport at the last minute.
Routes approaching IGI Airport could be affected by VVIP movements, particularly when delegations travel between hotels and the airport.
Travellers from Dwarka, west Delhi, south Delhi and areas around Dhaula Kuan should keep additional time in hand.
A convoy-related stoppage may last only briefly, but the resulting queue can take much longer to clear.
Central Delhi Could Face Frequent Diversions
Central Delhi is expected to be one of the key areas affected by the movement of visiting leaders.
Traffic restrictions around major VVIP corridors can force vehicles onto connecting roads, potentially increasing congestion across surrounding areas.
People who normally drive through central Delhi for work or other daily activities may therefore want to consider alternative routes or public transport.
South Delhi Commuters Also Need to Be Careful
South Delhi could see additional traffic because some foreign delegations are staying in the area.
Movement between hotels in areas such as Saket and central Delhi may require temporary traffic regulation.
This could particularly affect commuters travelling during morning and evening peak hours.
Metro Services to Continue
For many commuters, the Delhi Metro may be a more predictable option during the summit.
Metro services are expected to continue normally, although security requirements could lead to temporary restrictions at certain stations or specific entry and exit gates.
Bus services will also continue. However, routes passing through restricted areas may be changed, shortened or temporarily regulated.
Inter-state bus operations could also see changes depending on the security arrangements.
Cabs and Autos Will Operate
People using Uber, Ola, autos and traditional taxis will still be able to travel around Delhi.
However, vehicles may not be permitted to enter controlled areas during a VVIP movement. This means passengers could occasionally be asked to meet their driver at a location outside a restricted zone.
Delivery services could face similar difficulties in controlled areas, although the movement of essential goods such as medicines and milk will be facilitated.
Navigation Apps May Show Updated Routes
Traffic authorities have worked with navigation service providers to incorporate road closures and diversions into digital maps.
This should help commuters find alternative routes in real time.
Still, checking the latest traffic advisory before starting a journey is recommended, particularly for people travelling through central and south Delhi.
Students and Hospital Visitors Should Leave Early
The traffic restrictions could be particularly important for people who cannot afford to be late.
Students appearing for UPSC, NDA, CDS and other examinations should check their examination centre and route before leaving and carry their required documents.
Patients with scheduled appointments should similarly keep extra time for travel.
Anyone facing a genuine medical emergency should inform traffic police personnel nearby so that assistance can be provided.
Residents in Restricted Areas Can Travel
People living inside notified controlled areas will not be completely prevented from moving around.
Movement will be permitted subject to security requirements. Residents should carry valid identification and proof of address and cooperate with instructions from police personnel.
Parking on roads covered by security restrictions will not be permitted, so motorists should use designated parking facilities.
Don’t Believe Social Media Messages About a ‘Delhi Shutdown’
Delhi Traffic Police has cautioned residents against sharing unverified posts claiming that the entire city will be closed during the BRICS Summit.
There is no city-wide shutdown. Restrictions will depend on the movement of visiting dignitaries and prevailing security requirements.
For accurate information, commuters should follow official traffic updates rather than relying on WhatsApp forwards or social media posts.
What Delhi Commuters Should Do
If you need to travel during the BRICS Summit, a few simple precautions can help:
- Check your route before leaving.
- Keep extra travel time, especially for airport journeys.
- Consider the Metro if your destination is accessible by rail.
- Expect sudden diversions around VVIP routes.
- Don’t rely solely on your usual route.
- Follow directions from traffic police.
- Check live navigation updates.
- Avoid parking on restricted roads.
- Do not share unverified claims about a Delhi shutdown.
The Bigger Issue Is Travel Time
The BRICS Summit is unlikely to bring Delhi to a standstill, but commuters should expect short-notice traffic controls and unpredictable delays.
A road may be perfectly accessible when you leave home but temporarily restricted by the time you reach it. With multiple foreign delegations moving between airports, hotels and meeting venues, traffic conditions could change throughout the day.
For anyone travelling to the airport, an examination, hospital or an important appointment, leaving early is likely to be the safest approach.
