BRICS Summit 2026: Delhi Traffic, Closures and Services Guide

New Delhi is operating under heightened security and traffic controls as India hosts the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit from September 11 to 13, with the main summit taking place at Bharat Mandapam.

The restrictions do not mean that Delhi is completely shut. However, residents, office-goers and visitors can expect temporary traffic stoppages, route diversions and changes around key parts of the capital because of VVIP movements and security arrangements.

Schools and government offices closed

September 11 has been declared a public holiday in Delhi. Government, government-aided and recognised private schools are closed, while Delhi government offices, autonomous bodies and public-sector undertakings are also shut for the day.

Private offices and banks are generally operating, although employees travelling through areas affected by VVIP movements could face delays. Businesses have been advised to consider flexible or work-from-home arrangements where possible.

Delhi Metro remains operational

Delhi Metro services are continuing during the summit period, making the network one of the more practical options for commuters facing road restrictions.

There is one notable exception for visitors: the Delhi Metro Museum at Supreme Court Metro Station is closed from September 11 to 13 and is scheduled to reopen on September 15 after its regular weekly closure.

More than 35 roads affected

Traffic management is expected to be the biggest challenge for people travelling across the capital. More than 35 roads and important corridors are expected to be affected by security arrangements, while 22 diversion points have been identified for regulated traffic movement.

The impact could extend beyond the immediate area around Bharat Mandapam. VVIP convoys travelling between the summit venue, hotels, the airport and other locations can result in temporary traffic stoppages and diversions.

People travelling to the airport or railway stations should therefore leave earlier than usual and check the latest traffic advisory before starting their journey.

Connaught Place remains open

Connaught Place is expected to remain open during the summit period. However, reaching the commercial district could take longer because of traffic controls and security-related diversions.

Visitors should distinguish between a venue being open and being easily accessible: businesses may continue operating even when roads leading to them experience temporary restrictions.

Tourist attractions face temporary closures

Some public attractions are being closed as part of the summit security arrangements. The Delhi Metro Museum is one confirmed example, while other government-managed visitor facilities have also announced temporary closures.

Visitors planning sightseeing in central Delhi should check the operating status of individual attractions before travelling rather than assuming that all tourist sites will follow normal weekend schedules.

What commuters should keep in mind

The safest approach during September 11-13 is to plan around the possibility of sudden traffic regulation. The Delhi Traffic Police has advised commuters to allow additional travel time, particularly when travelling through central Delhi or towards major transport hubs.

For many journeys, Metro services may offer a more predictable alternative to road travel. People who must drive should check the latest official traffic advisory before leaving, as restrictions can change according to the movement of visiting leaders and their delegations.

In short, Delhi is not under a complete shutdown for the BRICS Summit. Essential services and much of the city's commercial activity continue, but schools and several government establishments are closed on September 11, selected attractions have temporary closures, and road travel is likely to be the main source of disruption through September 13.

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