New Delhi – The India AI Impact Summit 2026 concluded on a jarring note for many attendees, as a chaotic exit left hundreds walking along closed roads after the event. A viral video captured the scene, sparking widespread criticism and raising questions about logistical planning for large-scale international events in the Indian capital. The incident underscores challenges in coordinating transportation and security, particularly when VVIP movement intersects with major conferences.
The disruption unfolded Wednesday evening, February 18, as delegates began leaving Bharat Mandapam, the venue for the summit. Canadian influencer Caleb Friesen documented the situation in a video posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, which quickly gained traction, amassing over 313,000 views as of Thursday morning. The video shows attendees expressing confusion and frustration as they were informed that no cabs, auto-rickshaws, buses, or pre-arranged shuttle services were available.
Friesen, who described the summit’s programming as well-organized during the day, noted the problems began around 7:40 p.m. “Had such a great day at the India AI Impact Summit,” he wrote in his post. “But the way it ended was a huge let-down. No cabs, no pre-arranged shuttle. ‘Road is closed, go for a walk.’” The video shows Friesen interviewing fellow attendees, one of whom joked that the unexpected walk was “an extra networking opportunity.”
Had such a great day at the India AI Impact Summit. But the way it ended (7:40PM) was a huge let-down. No cabs, no pre-arranged shuttle. “Road is closed, go for a walk.”
Imagine how international visitors from must have felt. Not to mention differently-abled folks. pic.twitter.com/tcHjnQOxwK— Caleb (@caleb_friesen) February 18, 2026
The unexpected walk was reportedly due to road closures related to the movement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to attendees interviewed in Friesen’s video. One attendee pointed out the inaccessibility of ride-hailing services like Uber, Ola, and Rapido due to the closures, adding, “Then people ask why talent is leaving India,” and noting that many affected were high-earning professionals. A delegate from Salesforce, based in Bengaluru, described the situation as “hectic” and unanticipated.
Last-Mile Planning Under Scrutiny
Friesen clarified that his criticism focused specifically on the exit arrangements, acknowledging improvements within the venue itself, including better signage and access to drinking water. However, he explained that delegates waited for extended periods for cabs that were ultimately cancelled due to the roadblocks. With no alternative transportation options provided, attendees were simply directed to walk.
“Some people had already been walking for 15 minutes by the time we started,” Friesen said, adding that others walked for more than 30 minutes. He also highlighted the potential impact on international visitors and individuals with disabilities. “It felt like people’s time, energy and plans were treated as the least important thing,” he said.
Authorities Issued Traffic Advisories
Prior to the summit, India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued traffic advisories recommending delegates utilize public transportation, particularly the Delhi Metro, citing limited parking and security restrictions. The advisory detailed regulated access points at Bharat Mandapam, with some gates restricted after 2 p.m., and shuttle services operating only between designated parking areas and the venue during specific hours.
The incident has prompted a range of reactions online. Some users defended the authorities, citing similar experiences with traffic congestion in other major cities. One user wrote, “Sometimes, we just have to adjust without making a fuss. We shouldn’t act entitled.” Others were more critical, questioning the logistical preparedness for an event of this scale. “This is a Bloody Mess,” one user posted on X. “No proper transport arrangements for the people attending the AI summit.”
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 brought together global leaders in artificial intelligence, including speakers like Sam Altman and Mukesh Ambani, though Bill Gates did not attend. The summit aimed to showcase India’s growing role in the AI landscape and foster collaboration on emerging technologies. The chaotic exit, however, has overshadowed some of the event’s successes, raising concerns about the practicalities of hosting large international gatherings in New Delhi.
Authorities have not yet issued a formal response to the criticism regarding the transportation issues. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has not released any further statements as of Thursday morning. The focus now shifts to the fourth and final day of the summit, where Prime Minister Modi and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman are scheduled to speak.
As the summit concludes, organizers will likely face scrutiny regarding their contingency planning for large-scale events and the need to prioritize seamless transportation for all attendees, particularly in situations involving VVIP movements and potential disruptions to public services.
Please share your thoughts on this incident and the broader implications for event planning in the comments below.
