Delhi Traffic Advisory: Curbs, Diversions in Place for AI Summit 2026; Key Routes to Avoid

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to inaugurate the summit in the presence of foreign dignitaries, including French President Emmanuel Macron, heavy VIP movement is expected throughout the day. Authorities have cautioned commuters to prepare for congestion, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours.

Delhi Witnesses Two Days of Severe Gridlock

Traffic disruptions have persisted for the past two days as multiple heads of state arrived in the capital. Officials said nearly 50 routes were created for VIP convoys travelling between the airport, hotels, summit venue, and key landmarks.

Major stretches that witnessed long traffic snarls include:

• C-Hexagon

• Oberoi Flyover

• Mathura Road

• Lodhi Road Flyover

• Raisina Road

• Connaught Place

• Minto Road

• Paharganj

• Sardar Patel Marg

• AIIMS Flyover

• Rao Tularam Marg

• Nizamuddin

On Wednesday evening, Mathura Road was temporarily shut when dignitaries departed Bharat Mandapam, triggering widespread congestion across Lutyens’ Delhi. The Supreme Court Metro station was briefly closed for security reasons before reopening.

Several commuters reported delays of up to two to three hours, with some nearly missing flights and trains.

Roads Likely to Be Affected on February 19

Traffic regulations and diversions will remain in place around Bharat Mandapam and adjoining diplomatic and central Delhi areas. The following roads may face restrictions depending on VIP movement:

• Sardar Patel Marg

• Mother Teresa Crescent

• Teen Murti Marg

• Akbar Road

• Janpath

• Windsor Place

• Tees January Marg

• Prithvi Raj Road

• Rajesh Pilot Marg

• Subrahmaniam Bharti Marg

• Mathura Road (Lodhi Flyover to Bhairon Marg/Dr Dinesh Chander Dalmia stretch)

• Shanti Path (Satya Marg to Kautilya Marg roundabouts)

• Africa Avenue

• Satya Marg (Yashwant Place to Shanti Path)

• Dr Zakir Hussain Marg

Traffic movement may also be affected around India Gate, Connaught Place, and routes connecting the airport to central Delhi.

Suggested Alternate Routes

Motorists are advised to use alternative corridors such as:

• San Martin Marg

• Panchsheel Marg

• APJ Abdul Kalam Marg

• Kamal Ataturk Marg

• Aurobindo Marg

• Lodhi Road

• South Avenue Road

• Vandematram Marg

• Barapullah Road

• Ring Road

• Tilak Marg

• Ferozshah Road

• Rafi Marg

• Sansad Marg

• K Kamraj Marg

Advisory for Commuters

The Delhi Traffic Police has urged residents and visitors to:

• Plan travel in advance and allow extra time

• Avoid affected routes wherever possible

• Follow directions issued by traffic personnel

• Maintain lane discipline and comply with traffic regulations

Authorities warned that temporary closures of major arterial roads in central Delhi can create ripple effects across the city. With summit events continuing through Friday, intermittent restrictions are likely to remain in force.

Commuters heading to the airport, railway stations, workplaces, or board examinations are advised to leave well in advance to avoid last-minute inconvenience.