The Japan Times - Delhi Issues Dussehra Traffic Curbs and Diversions for October 20

Delhi Police announced traffic restrictions, diversions and additional security around major Dussehra venues for celebrations on October 20.

The Delhi Traffic Police has issued a traffic advisory and strengthened security arrangements across the national capital ahead of Dussehra celebrations on Tuesday, October 20. Commuters have been warned about possible traffic congestion and diversions on key roads, particularly in East Delhi, due to the expected rush of devotees and visitors.Delhi Traffic Diversions From 5 PM to 8 PMAccording to the advisory, traffic diversions may be implemented on major roads in East Delhi between 5 pm and 8 pm, depending on traffic conditions. The measures have been put in place to manage the expected movement of vehicles and pedestrians during the festivities.Several parts of Delhi, particularly East and West Delhi, are projected to witness large gatherings as people attend Ramlila performances and Ravana effigy-burning ceremonies.The traffic advisory stated, In view of the Dussehra celebrations on 20.10.2026 and the expected heavy movement in the area of East Delhi, a large number of devotees, visitors and pedestrians are expected. Traffic congestion and slow movement of vehicles are likely during the event. These Roads in East Delhi May Face Traffic RestrictionsThe Delhi Traffic Police has identified several key roads that may experience congestion and diversions during the evening celebrations. These include:NH-24Vikas MargRoad No. 57Road No. 57ARoad No. 56The advisory further stated, In view of the Dussehra celebrations on 20.10.2026, heavy pedestrian and vehicular movement is expected in East Delhi. Traffic diversions will remain in effect, as required, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on the following roads: NH-24, Road No. 57, Road No. 57A, Road No. 56, Vikas Marg... Delhi Traffic Police Issues Advice for CommutersThe traffic police has urged commuters to plan their journeys in advance and consider alternative routes while travelling through East Delhi during peak evening hours. People have also been advised to allow extra time for their journeys to avoid inconvenience caused by traffic congestion.Motorists should park their vehicles only in designated parking areas, as roadside parking may invite strict enforcement action. Drivers have also been advised to maintain low speeds near celebration venues due to the expected movement of large numbers of pedestrians.Security Tightened at Dussehra and Durga Puja Venues in West DelhiMeanwhile, security arrangements have been strengthened at celebration venues across West Delhi. DCP (West District) Hareshwar V Swami confirmed that police personnel had been deployed at locations hosting festive events. As reported by the official, Ramlila events are being organised at 43 locations across the district, while Durga Puja celebrations are taking place at 16 locations. Police deployment across these venues aims to support maintain law and order and ensure the safety of visitors during the festivities.

M.Yamazaki--JT