BRICS Summit 2026: Delhi Traffic Restrictions You Need to Know Before Heading to the Airport, Central or South Delhi

Delhi is not expected to face a complete shutdown during the BRICS Summit, but commuters should prepare for sudden traffic stoppages, diversions and delays as VVIP convoys move through the city.

With the BRICS Summit 2026 scheduled at Bharat Mandapam from September 11 to 13, Delhi Traffic Police has issued an advisory for commuters travelling through key parts of the capital.

Normal traffic will continue wherever security arrangements allow. However, roads along VVIP routes may be temporarily stopped or diverted depending on the movement of foreign leaders and their delegations.

The biggest concern for commuters is that these restrictions may not follow a fixed timetable.

Why Delhi Traffic Could Become Unpredictable

Traffic restrictions related to VVIP movements can be imposed at short notice. A road that remains open for most of the day could be temporarily blocked when a high-security convoy approaches.

According to the traffic advisory, there is no fixed duration for these stoppages. Vehicles may be held temporarily, diverted and then released in stages after the convoy has passed.

This means commuters could face significantly longer travel times even when their regular route has not been officially closed.

More Than 35 Roads and 22 Diversion Points Affected

The traffic arrangements for the BRICS Summit cover more than 35 roads and 22 diversion points, with thousands of traffic personnel deployed across the city.

The special arrangements are expected to remain in place from September 10 through around September 14.

Traffic officials have also carried out motorcade rehearsals to prepare for the movement of foreign delegations.

Officials expect a large number of high-security movements during the summit. Delegations may travel between airports, hotels, Bharat Mandapam and locations for bilateral meetings, potentially creating traffic pressure across multiple parts of Delhi.

Airport Travellers Should Leave Early

People travelling to Indira Gandhi International Airport should allow extra time, particularly if their route passes through areas such as Dhaula Kuan, central Delhi or south Delhi.

Travellers from Dwarka and other parts of west Delhi may also experience delays while travelling towards the airport and south Delhi.

Even a short convoy-related stoppage can cause traffic to build up quickly on connecting roads.

If you have a flight, arriving at the airport well in advance is advisable during the summit period.

Central Delhi and South Delhi May See Delays

Commuters travelling between Noida, east Delhi and central Delhi could also experience delays as vehicles are diverted away from controlled areas.

South Delhi may face additional pressure because of movements involving visiting delegations. For example, the movement of the Egyptian delegation between its hotel in Saket and central Delhi could affect traffic on important south Delhi routes.

As traffic is redirected, congestion could also spread to roads that are not directly restricted.

Delhi Metro to Continue, But Some Restrictions Possible

The Delhi Metro will continue operating during the BRICS Summit.

However, security requirements could result in temporary restrictions at certain metro stations or specific entry and exit gates.

Delhi Transport Corporation and other city buses are also expected to operate, although services passing through restricted areas may be diverted, shortened or temporarily regulated.

Inter-state buses could also face changes to their routes or entry and exit points.

What About Cabs, Autos and Delivery Services?

Autos, taxis and app-based cab services will continue to operate. However, vehicles may not be allowed to enter certain controlled zones during VVIP movements.

Passengers may also find that their usual pickup or drop-off location is temporarily unavailable.

Delivery workers could similarly face restrictions in security-sensitive areas. Essential supplies such as milk and medicines will be facilitated under the applicable traffic arrangements.

Google Maps and Other Navigation Apps May Show Diversions

Traffic authorities have coordinated with online navigation platforms so that road restrictions and diversions can be reflected in navigation services.

However, commuters should still check official traffic updates before starting their journey, particularly if travelling through central or south Delhi.

Cab companies have also been advised to avoid arranging pickup and drop-off locations inside restricted areas during VVIP movements.

Students and Patients Should Plan Ahead

The traffic restrictions could affect students appearing for examinations, including UPSC, NDA and CDS, as well as people travelling to examination centres.

Candidates should check their centre and route in advance, carry their admit card and identification documents and leave early.

Patients with scheduled hospital appointments should also allow additional travel time.

In case of a genuine medical emergency, commuters have been advised to immediately alert nearby traffic police personnel.

Residents in Controlled Areas Can Still Travel

Residents living in areas covered by security restrictions will not be completely prevented from moving around.

They may travel depending on the security situation but should carry valid identification and address proof and follow instructions from police personnel.

Parking on roads covered by restrictions or security arrangements will not be allowed. Motorists should use designated parking areas instead.

Police Warn Against Fake ‘Delhi Bandh’ Messages

Delhi Traffic Police has also warned people against forwarding unverified social media messages claiming that the capital will be completely shut down during the BRICS Summit.

There is no blanket Delhi shutdown. Traffic restrictions will depend on security arrangements and VVIP movements.

Commuters should rely on official traffic advisories instead of social media forwards.

BRICS Summit Traffic Advisory: Key Things to Remember

• Delhi will not be completely shut down during the BRICS Summit.
• Temporary road stoppages and diversions are possible during VVIP movements.
• Airport-bound passengers should leave early.
• Central Delhi, south Delhi, Dhaula Kuan, Dwarka and connecting routes may experience delays.
• Delhi Metro will continue operating, subject to security requirements.
• Buses, taxis and autos will operate but may face route restrictions.
• Check navigation apps and official traffic updates before travelling.
• Carry identification if you live in a controlled area.
• Avoid parking on restricted roads.
• Do not believe or forward unverified messages claiming a complete Delhi bandh.

The biggest challenge for Delhi commuters during the BRICS Summit 2026 may not be permanent road closures but unpredictable travel times. VVIP convoys can temporarily stop traffic and push vehicles onto already busy alternative routes.

If you need to reach the airport, an examination centre, hospital or an important appointment, plan extra travel time and check the latest traffic situation before leaving home.