Crowds, Congestion & Chhath Puja 2025: Delhi Traffic Advisory During The Festive Rush

As Delhi prepares for Chhath Puja 2025 to be celebrated all along the Yamuna ghats in the city, the Delhi Traffic Police has issued an extensive traffic advisory to help manage the influx of devotees expected across the capital. With thousands heading to ghats, traffic is likely to soar and slow to a festive crawl from Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning.

This year, authorities are anticipating record crowds and urging commuters to avoid key routes adjoining the river. The officials have advised to plan ahead, use the public transport, rely on the Delhi Metro and expect delays if you’re travelling near major ghats or connecting roads.

Citywide Congestion & Diversions

According to the advisory, normal flow of Delhi traffic will be disrupted on several major stretches, including M.B. Road (from Lal Kuan to Tughalkabad Extension), Khadar Kalindi Kunj Road, Agar Canal Road, and Road No. 13. These are among the busiest arteries for those heading to Chhath Puja sites in south and southeast Delhi, where heavy footfall is expected.

In east and northeast Delhi, devotees will gather in large numbers at Naav Ghat near the Old Iron Bridge, Purvanchal Nav Nirman Sangtan Ghat, and Satyamev Jayate Ghat near Geeta Colony, each likely to attract upwards of 45,000 people. The DND Yamuna Khadar and Chhath Ghat near Shastri Park are also on the list of likely congestion hotspots.

In Bhajanpura, commercial vehicles will be restricted on GT Road (from Shastri Park to Yudhishthir Setu) between 5 pm and 7 pm on October 27 and 5 am and 7 am on October 28. Meanwhile, in Gandhi Nagar, the Shantivan Loop and Laxmi Nagar–Kailash Nagar Road will remain closed during similar hours, with diversions via Disused Canal Road.

Further north, the Shyam Ghat in Jagatpur, Shani Mandir Ghat, and Vaasudev Ghat near ISBT are all preparing for massive turnouts. As a result, commuters should brace for slow movement along Majnu ka Tilla, Burari, and Wazirabad Road, particularly around the Yamuna embankments.

South Delhi: High Footfall, Heavy Traffic

The biggest crowds, however, are expected in south and southeast Delhi. At Bhola Ghat in Kalindi Kunj, between 2.5 and 3 lakh devotees are expected to gather to offer evening and morning prayers to the Sun God. Authorities expect Kalindi Kunj congestion to be severe, affecting nearby routes and feeder roads.

Traffic is also likely to slow down around Aya Nagar’s Khasra No. 1575, Shiv Ghat near Shri Ram Chowk, and Asthal Mandir in Sangam Vihar. The advisory urges motorists to avoid the M.B. Road, Agar Canal Road, and Khadar Kalindi Kunj stretch, especially during peak hours on both days.

To ease the load, the police have strongly encouraged the use of public transport, particularly the Delhi Metro during Chhath Puja, which remains the quickest way to cross the city. Roadside parking will be strictly prohibited near ghats; vehicles must be parked in designated parking lots only.

For commuters heading to major railway stations, New Delhi, Old Delhi, Nizamuddin, and ISBT, there are no direct restrictions, though minor delays may occur due to surrounding diversions.

Safety First: Police On High Alert

Beyond traffic management, the Delhi Police have stepped up patrolling along the Yamuna riverbanks, conducting detailed inspections of access routes, crowd control plans, and safety measures. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara) Prashant Gautam reviewed the arrangements at key ghats, emphasising the need for safe, peaceful celebrations.

Police teams from north, east, northeast, and southeast Delhi have been instructed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance, especially around sensitive areas and densely packed ghats. The city’s focus, officials say, is on ensuring smooth mobility while safeguarding devotees.

Motorists are urged to remain patient, follow traffic rules, and cooperate with on-ground personnel. The advisory also requests citizens to report any suspicious persons or unidentified objects immediately to the nearest police officer.

For real-time Delhi traffic updates, commuters can connect with the Delhi Traffic Police through:

• Website: traffic.delhipolice.gov.in

• Facebook: facebook.com/dtptraffic

• X (formerly Twitter): x.com/dtptraffic

• Instagram: instagram.com/dtptraffic

• WhatsApp Helpline: 8750871493

• Helpline Numbers: 1095 / 011-25844444

(With inputs from various sources.)

FAQs

1. What is the Delhi Traffic Police advisory for Chhath Puja 2025?
Delhi Traffic Police has announced diversions and restrictions from October 27 to 28 to manage large crowds near Yamuna ghats.

2. Which roads will be affected during Chhath Puja 2025 in Delhi?
Expect congestion on MB Road, Kalindi Kunj, Road No. 13, and near ghats like Geeta Colony, Shastri Park, and Kalindi Kunj.

3. Will there be any road closures during Chhath Puja 2025?
Yes, partial closures and diversions are planned in Bhajanpura, Gandhi Nagar, and Khajuri Khas during peak hours.

4. Is Delhi Metro the best option during Chhath Puja 2025?
Yes, the Metro will run normally and is the easiest way to reach ghats while avoiding traffic jams.

5. What safety guidelines should devotees follow during Chhath Puja 2025?
Follow police instructions, avoid overcrowded ghats, and use designated entry and exit routes for smooth movement.