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Traffic restrictions in Delhi today for Bharat Mandapam rehearsal: Check routes

Delhi traffic advisory issued for Bharat Mandapam rehearsal today, with diversions and curbs from 12 pm to 3 pm; commuters advised to take alternate routes to avoid delays.

By Pritha Chakraborty

May 19, 2026 08:55 IST

Delhi Traffic Police has released a detailed advisory ahead of a high-level summit rehearsal scheduled at Bharat Mandapam on Tuesday, urging commuters to plan their journeys in advance. Movement across several central Delhi stretches is expected to be affected between 12 noon and 3 pm due to traffic restrictions and diversions.

The rehearsal is being held in preparation for the International Big Cat Alliance Summit and the India-Africa Forum Summit, which are set to take place at the venue from May 28 to June 1.

Key routes to remain functional

To ease congestion, authorities have advised commuters to rely on the Ring Road and Vande Mataram Marg, both of which will remain open in both directions during the rehearsal window.

Those travelling from north to south Delhi have been guided to take the Ring Road via Rajghat and Sarai Kale Khan. For commuters moving between west and south Delhi, the suggested route is the Ring Road through Dhaula Kuan, Moti Bagh and Bikaji Cama Place.

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For east to south Delhi movement, the advisory recommends using the Ring Road via Sarai Kale Khan along with the Barapullah-Ashram Chowk corridor.

Airport and central Delhi access

The advisory confirms that NH-8 and Gurgaon Road via Dhaula Kuan will stay operational for airport-bound traffic. However, entry into the New Delhi district will be restricted and allowed only through the Ring Road and Vande Mataram Marg.

Certain stretches including SP Marg and Mathura Road may remain affected or closed during the rehearsal period.

Connaught Place and nearby areas

Commuters heading towards Connaught Place via the W-Point at Tilak Marg have been asked to take alternative routes through Sikandara Road or DDU Marg.

Despite restrictions, access to Rajiv Chowk’s outer circle and Connaught Place will continue through Sansad Marg, Baba Kharak Singh Marg and Barakhamba Road.

Access to hospitals and courts

For those visiting RML Hospital, the advisory suggests using Sheikh Abdul Rehman Marg.

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People travelling to the Supreme Court, Delhi High Court and Patiala House Court can use Tilak Marg for smoother access to the court complexes.

Parking and entry for Bharat Mandapam

Visitors heading to Bharat Mandapam have been directed to park at Bhairon Mandir parking. Entry to the venue will be permitted only through Gates 4 and 10.

Cab pick-up and drop-off points, along with DTC bus stops, will be located near these gates. App-based taxi services will also operate from the same designated points.

The advisory adds that various online navigation platforms will offer real-time diversion updates and alternate route suggestions. Voice-guided alerts will also notify commuters about affected stretches in advance.

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