Commuters hit by traffic snarls as security beefed up ahead of I-Day

With Independence Day just two days away, commuters in Delhi faced long delays on Wednesday as traffic diversions and security checks led to heavy congestion — particularly in central areas and at the city’s borders.

The Delhi Traffic Police have issued a detailed plan to regulate movement around high-security zones, especially near the Red Fort.

“Our priority is to ensure smooth movement during rehearsals and the main event while keeping security tight,” said a senior traffic police official, adding that they requested people to cooperate and plan their journeys in advance.

At one of the busiest intersections, ITO, vehicles remained stuck in long queues for much of the day due to barricades placed for Independence Day security arrangements.

Similar scenes were reported at the Ghazipur, Tikri and Singhu border points, where extensive police checks slowed traffic. Several restrictions were in force on Wednesday for the full-dress rehearsal.

According to the advisory, heavy vehicles from Gurugram were barred from entering Delhi from 5 pm on August 14 until 1.30 pm on August 15 for the main celebrations. Interstate travellers have been advised to use the KMP Expressway, while parking will be allowed only in designated areas.

Diversions are also in place for vehicles coming from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Salimgarh Bypass, Vikas Marg and other surrounding routes.

Dedicated alternate roads had been arranged for buses from Ajmeri Gate, South Delhi, Mall Road and Baraf Khana to avoid congestion near the Red Fort, the advisory added.

“Restrictions were imposed on our borders from 10 last night, under which we do not allow any commercial vehicles to enter Delhi. These restrictions will remain in place until the arrangements at Red Fort are over. We have restrictions on the ring road that goes towards Raj Ghat because there is movement of VIPs there,” said Delhi Police Additional CP (Traffic) Dinesh Kumar Gupta.