Delhi is getting ready to host the BRICS Summit, and while the city will remain open, commuters should expect temporary traffic controls as foreign leaders move between the airport, hotels and summit venues.
The capital is preparing for a busy few days as leaders and delegations arrive for the BRICS Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.
There will be no blanket closure of roads across Delhi. However, traffic police have warned that motorists may encounter sudden stoppages or diversions when high-security convoys pass through different parts of the city.
For commuters, that means a journey that normally takes 30 minutes could take considerably longer depending on the time and route.
Delhi Won’t Be Completely Closed
Delhi Traffic Police has clarified that normal movement will continue wherever security arrangements permit.
At the same time, roads falling along VVIP routes may be temporarily regulated. Traffic could be stopped, diverted and released in phases once a convoy has passed.
Importantly, there is no fixed time limit for these stoppages. Police decisions will depend on the movement of visiting leaders and the security situation at that moment.
Traffic Restrictions Begin Ahead of the Summit
Special traffic arrangements are being implemented from September 10 and are expected to continue until around September 14.
The plan covers more than 35 roads and 22 diversion points, with thousands of traffic personnel deployed to manage vehicle movement.
Motorcade rehearsals have already provided a glimpse of how quickly congestion can build when a VVIP convoy moves through the city.
During the summit itself, officials expect numerous high-security movements each day as delegations travel between hotels, the airport, Bharat Mandapam and other meeting locations.
Travelling to Delhi Airport? Don’t Take Chances
Passengers heading to Indira Gandhi International Airport should keep a significant buffer in their travel plans.
Traffic restrictions could affect routes connecting the airport with central and south Delhi, as well as areas such as Dwarka and Dhaula Kuan.
Even when the road itself is not closed, congestion from diverted traffic could slow down the journey.
If your flight departure time is fixed, reaching the airport early is strongly advisable.
Central Delhi Could Be a Major Pressure Point
Central Delhi will see several important movements during the BRICS meeting.
Temporary restrictions on key corridors could push vehicles onto nearby roads, creating congestion beyond the immediate VVIP route.
Office-goers and other daily commuters travelling towards central Delhi may want to check live traffic conditions before starting their journey.
South Delhi Traffic Could Also Be Affected
South Delhi commuters should also prepare for possible delays.
Foreign delegations staying in the area will need to travel to central Delhi for official engagements. The movement of the Egyptian delegation between its hotel in Saket and central Delhi, for instance, could place additional pressure on roads in the area.
The effect may be particularly noticeable during peak commuting hours.
Noida and East Delhi Routes May Feel the Impact
Traffic changes in central Delhi can have a knock-on effect on routes connecting Noida, east Delhi and central areas.
When vehicles are diverted from one road, alternative corridors can become crowded quickly.
This is why commuters should not assume that roads outside the official restriction list will necessarily remain free-flowing.
Metro Could Be the Easier Option
The Delhi Metro will remain operational during the BRICS Summit, offering commuters an alternative to road travel.
Some stations or specific gates could face temporary restrictions if security arrangements require them, but Metro services are expected to continue.
Buses, autos and taxis will also operate, although services travelling through controlled areas may be diverted or temporarily regulated.
What Happens to Cabs and Delivery Services?
App-based cabs and taxis will continue operating, but pickup and drop-off locations may be affected.
During VVIP movements, vehicles may not be allowed into certain controlled zones. Passengers could therefore have to walk to a nearby accessible location to meet their driver.
Delivery services may also face restrictions in security-sensitive areas.
Essential supplies, including medicines and milk, will be allowed to move under the applicable arrangements.
Navigation Apps to Help With Diversions
Traffic authorities have coordinated with digital map providers to ensure road restrictions and alternative routes can be reflected on navigation platforms.
Checking your navigation app shortly before leaving could therefore help you avoid roads affected by a convoy.
However, traffic conditions can change rapidly, so commuters should remain prepared for last-minute diversions.
Exam Candidates and Patients Should Plan Carefully
People travelling for examinations should take special precautions.
Candidates appearing for UPSC, NDA, CDS and other exams have been advised to check their centre and route beforehand, carry their admit card and identification and leave home early.
Patients with scheduled hospital visits should also allow extra time.
In a genuine medical emergency, people should immediately inform nearby traffic police personnel.
Residents Can Enter and Leave Controlled Areas
Residents living in notified controlled areas will still be able to move around, subject to security requirements.
They should carry valid identification and address proof and follow instructions given by police.
Motorists should also avoid parking on restricted or security-sensitive roads and use designated parking facilities instead.
Beware of Fake ‘Delhi Bandh’ Claims
Social media users should be careful about messages claiming that Delhi will be completely shut down during the summit.
Traffic authorities have warned against spreading unverified information.
The city is not going under a blanket lockdown or bandh. Restrictions will be introduced according to security requirements and VVIP movements.
BRICS Summit Traffic: Quick Guide for Delhi Commuters
Travelling to the airport? Leave early and check live traffic conditions.
Going to Central Delhi? Expect possible convoy-related stoppages and diversions.
Travelling through South Delhi? Allow additional time, especially during peak hours.
Coming from Noida? Check connecting routes before starting your journey.
Using the Metro? Services will continue, although individual stations or gates could face temporary security restrictions.
Taking a cab? Be prepared for pickup and drop-off changes near controlled areas.
Bottom Line
The BRICS Summit will not shut Delhi down, but traffic conditions could change with little warning.
The safest strategy for commuters is simple: check the latest traffic information, avoid unnecessary road travel through sensitive areas and leave earlier than usual.
For airport passengers, students, patients and anyone with a fixed appointment, a little extra travel time could make the difference between reaching on time and getting caught behind a VVIP convoy.
