The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has closed entry and exit facilities at six metro stations in the national capital until 4 PM on Monday, October 12, amid security arrangements ahead of a protest march called by Congress and opposition leaders. The Delhi Traffic Police has also issued an advisory warning commuters about possible traffic restrictions, diversions and delays across several parts of the city.
The restrictions come as opposition leaders prepare to march towards the Supreme Court to raise concerns over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process and demand action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Commuters travelling through Central Delhi have been advised to plan their journeys in advance and allow additional time for travel.
Which Delhi Metro Stations Are Closed Today?
According to the DMRC, entry and exit facilities at six stations will remain closed from 6 AM to 4 PM on October 12 due to security reasons. The affected stations are located in Central Delhi and include several important locations used by office-goers and other commuters.
The six stations affected by the restrictions are:
- Patel Chowk
- Janpath
- Rajiv Chowk
- Mandi House
- Central Secretariat
- Barakhamba Road
The DMRC has clarified that interchange facilities will remain available at all six stations. This means passengers can still change metro lines at the affected stations, even though they cannot enter or exit from them during the restriction period.
The corporation has also said that security agencies will review the situation and issue further updates if required. Commuters should check official DMRC announcements before starting their journeys, as restrictions could be reviewed depending on the situation.
Delhi Traffic Advisory: Roads That May Face Restrictions
The Delhi Traffic Police has warned that vehicle movement could be affected at around 30 locations across the national capital. Traffic diversions and restrictions may be introduced depending on the prevailing law and order situation.
Some of the locations identified in the advisory include:
- Dhaula Kuan Flyover
- Roundabout Jhandewalan
- Roundabout Panchkuian
- Roundabout Mandi House
- Minto Road and Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg
- Guru Nanak Chowk
- Lodhi Road Flyover
- Roundabout Neela Gumbad
- Roundabout Samrat Hotel
- Tolstoy Road and Janpath crossing
- Roundabout Rail Bhawan
- Roundabout Patel Chowk
- Outer Circle, Connaught Place, near Barakhamba Road
- Roundabout RML Hospital
The advisory also identifies several stretches around Ashoka Road, Jantar Mantar Road, Sansad Marg and Connaught Place where traffic movement could be disrupted.
The police has requested motorists to avoid non-essential travel through affected areas, follow diversion signs and comply with directions issued by traffic personnel. Commuters should also keep extra travel time if they need to reach railway stations, interstate bus terminals or the airport through New Delhi and Central Delhi.
Why Are Delhi Metro Stations Closed?
The temporary metro restrictions come ahead of a protest march announced by Congress and other opposition leaders towards the Supreme Court. The demonstration is linked to opposition concerns over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and demands concerning Chief
Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The planned march follows a day of heightened security and detentions during protests in Delhi. Opposition leaders have criticised the action taken against demonstrators and called for further action through the legal system.
The Supreme Court had also issued directions concerning the functioning of public transport and the handling of peaceful protests. Against this backdrop, the latest metro restrictions have been introduced as a security measure while authorities prepare for the planned demonstration.
What Should Commuters Do Today?
People travelling through Central Delhi on October 12 should check metro and traffic updates before leaving home. Passengers who usually enter or exit at any of the six affected stations may need to use an alternative station or adjust their route.
Those travelling by road should be prepared for possible diversions and delays, particularly around Connaught Place, Mandi House, Patel Chowk and other locations listed in the traffic advisory.
The Delhi Traffic Police has advised commuters to follow its official social media channels for real-time updates. It has also provided helpline numbers, 1095 and 011-25844444, for traffic-related assistance.
The restrictions are scheduled to remain in place until 4 PM, subject to further review by security agencies. Commuters should confirm the latest updates before travelling, particularly if they have appointments or journeys planned through the affected areas.
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