Delhi Traffic Restrictions Implemented Ahead of Putin-Modi Summit
Delhi commuters face significant traffic disruptions on Friday, December 5, as authorities have issued a detailed advisory outlining major restrictions and diversions across central Delhi. The measures are in place to accommodate the logistical requirements surrounding the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Delhi Traffic Police announced the advisory on Thursday, urging motorists to avoid key routes between 9:00 AM and 12:00 noon. According to the advisory, shared via the Delhi Traffic Police’s X handle, traffic movement will be regulated across carriageways and service lanes in high-density zones including W Point, A Point, ITO Chowk, BSZ Marg, Delhi Gate, JLN Marg, Rajghat Crossing, Shanti Van Crossing, Hanuman Setu-Y Point, Netaji Subhash Marg, Nishad Raj Marg, Saleem Garh Flyover By-Pass, the MGM-Pragati Maidan Tunnel to Hanuman Setu, Kashmere Gate, Vikas Marg, and IP Marg.
Drivers are strongly advised to utilize alternate corridors to mitigate potential congestion during these hours. Parking will be severely restricted, permitted only in designated areas. Specifically, parking will be prohibited on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, JLN Marg, and sections of Ring Road – from Hanuman Setu to Shanti Van to Rajghat, from the I.P. Flyover to the Pragati Maidan Tunnel, and from Nishad Raj Marg to IP Marg.
The Traffic Police have warned that vehicles parked in violation of these regulations will be towed and subjected to prosecution. Commuters are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring official Delhi Traffic Police channels for real-time updates and further instructions.
The traffic restrictions coincide with President Putin’s two-day State visit to India, which began on Thursday. In a notable display of diplomatic courtesy, Prime Minister Modi personally received President Putin at Delhi Airport, a gesture that deviated from standard protocol. This warm welcome underscores the enduring strength of the India-Russia relationship.
Putin’s visit, his first to India since 2021, is viewed as a significant opportunity to bolster trade, defense cooperation, and energy partnerships between the two nations. Discussions are expected to encompass critical global issues such as the conflict in Ukraine and the situation in Afghanistan, alongside efforts to expand the India-Russia Strategic Partnership.
The timing of the visit is particularly noteworthy, coming after increased pressure from the United States on India to curtail its purchases of Russian oil. Despite this external pressure, Delhi and Moscow anticipate signing a number of agreements during Putin’s stay.
Friday’s schedule includes a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Rajghat. President Putin will then engage in bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House, culminating in joint press statements. A business event and subsequent discussions with President Droupadi Murmu will conclude the official program.
