New Delhi: Commuters heading into central Delhi face a combination of Metro access restrictions and road diversions ahead of the Opposition’s “Save Democracy” protest, with DMRC announcing closure of entry and exit at 11 stations until further notice. Interchange facilities will remain available at five of those stations.
The distinction is important for passengers changing lines: Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, INA, New Delhi and Central Secretariat will retain interchange facilities under the advisory, even though entry and exit are closed. The announcement concerns access to the listed stations and does not announce a network-wide suspension of Metro services.
DMRC service advisory
Which Metro stations are affected?
DMRC’s list covers Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Rajiv Chowk, Seva Teerth, Mandi House, Lok Kalyan Marg, INA, Chawri Bazar, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg and New Delhi.
The corporation has not specified a reopening time in the supplied service update. Passengers should check the latest operational announcement before setting out, particularly if they intend to enter or leave the Metro at one of these stations.
Diversions around Jantar Mantar and Connaught Place
Traffic movement around Jantar Mantar is to be regulated ahead of the protest. Diversions or regulations are planned around Connaught Place, Patel Chowk, GPO, Tolstoy Marg, Jantar Mantar Road, Parliament Street and adjoining roads.
People travelling through these areas should allow extra time and follow directions from personnel at diversion points. A road regulation and a Metro gate closure can affect the same journey, so passengers planning a transfer between road transport and the Metro need to account for both.
Police flag restrictions on gatherings
Delhi Police has separately said that a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, is in force in New Delhi district to ensure public safety, public order and smooth traffic movement.
Delhi Police public notice
Its public notice says that, without prior written permission, public meetings or assemblies of five or more persons, processions, demonstrations, picketing or dharnas, shouting slogans or making speeches, and carrying specified articles including firearms, banners, placards, lathis, swords, sticks and brickbats are prohibited.
The notice advises citizens and visitors to comply with the order and refrain from unauthorised gatherings or prohibited activities. It warns that violations will invite legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and other applicable provisions.
DCP New Delhi public notice
The DCP New Delhi’s separate notice reiterates the restrictions and asks citizens to cooperate with Delhi Police. The Metro access advisory and the police notices were issued on October 1.
