New Delhi Faces Traffic Chaos as India Prepares for BRICS Summit
New Delhi is facing major traffic chaos ahead of the BRICS summit it is hosting this weekend, accompanied by strict security measures, road closures, and a declared public holiday.
India's capital, New Delhi, has been transformed into high-security zones as part of preparations for the BRICS summit to be held this weekend, while the measures and traffic restrictions have negatively impacted daily life.
Security Measures Ahead of the Summit
India's capital, New Delhi, has begun implementing sweeping security measures for the upcoming BRICS summit this weekend, transforming parts of the city into controlled security zones.
With one day left before the start of the summit, thousands of police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed, while barricades and checkpoints have been established on main roads and critical points.
Public Holiday and Restrictions
City authorities declared a public holiday to limit mobility and reduce traffic; government offices, schools, and many private businesses were closed.
It was noted that these implemented measures bear similarities to those introduced during the period when New Delhi hosted the G20 summit.
Transportation Challenges
In the capital, where millions of vehicles are on the road daily, the existing traffic congestion has become even more complicated with the imposed restrictions.
Office workers, couriers, and daily-wage laborers expressed that they experienced great difficulties getting to work due to closed roads and altered routes.
Reactions from Workers and Drivers
Bus and taxi drivers, as well as delivery personnel, stated that the security measures and increased route distances directly hit low-income citizens and workers in particular.
Drivers reported that taxi fares have increased in some areas due to longer routes and heightened congestion, and uncertainties have caused confusion.
Leaders Attending the Summit
Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian are expected to attend the summit planned for Saturday and Sunday.
The BRICS group, formed by countries such as Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, represents approximately half of the world's population and a significant portion of global energy, resources, and economic output.