Delhi Traffic Alert Today: Navratri Rush And Delhi International Film Festival Trigger Diversions Across Key Roads

Traffic in Delhi is likely to move slower than usual through the day, with two large gatherings taking place at the same time. Devotees are heading to temples in large numbers owing to Navratri, while visitors and delegates are making their way to Pragati Maidan for the first-ever Delhi International Film Festival, creating pressure on already busy routes.

Diversions Around Pragati Maidan Likely To Delay Commutes

Restrictions will be in place from 10 AM to 10 PM near Bharat Mandapam, the main venue for the festival. Traffic on Mathura Road and Bhairon Road will not stop entirely, but it will be regulated, which means vehicles are expected to slow down, especially during peak hours.

Cars heading towards the venue will be guided through specific entry points, adding to waiting time for those simply passing through. Parking along these roads will not be allowed, and vehicles left on the roadside may be towed away.

For those travelling between central Delhi and Noida, this stretch could take much longer than usual. The traffic police has suggested avoiding the area during these hours and using the Ring Road or other arterial routes instead.

Temple Rush Builds Up In Central And South Delhi

At the same time, Navratri footfall is picking up at major temples like Jhandewalan Temple and Kalkaji Temple. As the day goes on, the roads that access those areas are likely to become increasingly congested, especially as evening approaches.

Along the various roads that make up Karol Bagh—the areas around the intersection of Desh Bandhu Gupta Road and Rani Jhansi Road will likely be the most delayed because of the congestion caused by all of the pedestrian traffic, diversions to local traffic, and vehicles stopping at temple entrances.

Traffic personnel will be stationed at key junctions, but delays are still expected as the volume of people increases.

What Commuters Should Keep In Mind Today

The advisory is straightforward. Leave early if you can, avoid central Delhi during the afternoon and evening, and be prepared for delays if your route passes through Pragati Maidan, ITO, or temple-heavy areas.

Public transport, especially the Delhi Metro, is likely to be the quickest way to get around today. Those who plan to drive should follow on-ground instructions and keep an eye out for diversion signage, as routes may change depending on how traffic builds through the day.

With celebrations and events overlapping, March 25 is shaping up to be a slow day on Delhi’s roads.

(With inputs from various sources.)

FAQs

1. Why is there a traffic alert in Delhi today?

The Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory due to heavy Navratri crowds and the Delhi International Film Festival.

2. Which roads are affected in Delhi today?

Key routes like Mathura Road, Bhairon Road, and areas around Pragati Maidan are expected to see congestion and diversions.

3. What time are traffic restrictions in place?

Restrictions near Bharat Mandapam are expected from 10 AM to 10 PM.

4. Which areas will see the most congestion?

Central and South Delhi areas near temples like Kalkaji and Jhandewalan, along with routes connecting to Pragati Maidan, may face heavy traffic.

5. What is the best way to avoid traffic in Delhi today?

Using the Delhi Metro and avoiding central Delhi routes during peak hours is recommended.