The Delhi Dussehra traffic advisory has warned commuters of congestion and possible diversions on key East Delhi roads between 5pm and 8pm on October 20, as large crowds gather for Ramlila events and Ravana effigy-burning ceremonies across the capital.
The Delhi Traffic Police said heavy movement of devotees, visitors, pedestrians and vehicles could lead to slow traffic during the evening celebrations. The roads likely to be affected include NH-24, Vikas Marg, Road No. 57, Road No. 57A and Road No. 56. Diversions will be enforced as required, depending on traffic conditions and crowd movement.
The police have advised motorists to use alternative routes, plan their journeys in advance and allow additional travel time. Commuters have also been urged to use the Delhi Metro, particularly during the peak evening period, and avoid roads near major celebration venues where possible.
The advisory asked drivers to park only in designated areas and warned that action would be taken against unauthorised roadside parking. Motorists were also told to maintain low speeds near celebration grounds because of the expected movement of large numbers of pedestrians.
Separate traffic restrictions are in place in Chittaranjan Park and Greater Kailash-II from 4pm to midnight each day between October 16 and October 20 because of Durga Puja celebrations. The traffic police has asked visitors to these areas to avoid affected roads and follow instructions issued by personnel deployed at key junctions and event locations.
Security arrangements have also been expanded across Delhi. DCP (West District) Hareshwar V Swami said police personnel had been deployed at Ramlila events at 43 locations and Durga Puja celebrations at 16 locations in the district. Female police personnel and Central Armed Police Forces personnel are also being deployed to support arrangements on Dussehra.
Joint Commissioner of Police Suman Goyal said the police were maintaining heightened vigilance because of the expected crowds and movements of high-profile visitors. Special arrangements have been made for VIP movements in Dwarka and other areas, while officials have been instructed to ensure that public movement is not disrupted.
In Central Delhi, Central Range DCP Traffic K Ramesh said special arrangements had been in place for the past 10 days as Ramlila events continued. Traffic personnel have been deployed near crowded locations including Hanuman Mandir and Delhi Gate, where officers will assist commuters and guide vehicles.
The traffic police said its personnel would remain deployed near affected roads, celebration grounds and junctions during the festivities. Commuters have been asked to follow on-ground instructions, avoid illegal parking and check route conditions before starting their journeys.
