Delhi, October 17, 2025: As the festive season gathers momentum ahead of Diwali on October 20, several areas across Delhi-NCR witnessed severe traffic congestion on Friday evening. Commuters faced long delays and gridlocks at key intersections, with prominent locations such as Moolchand flyover, Chanakyapuri, Teen Murti Marg, and ITOreporting bumper-to-bumper traffic. The festive rush combined with ongoing roadworks and infrastructure challenges has made traveling across the capital a slow and frustrating experience for motorists.

According to reports and videos circulated by news agency ANI, traffic at these busy junctions moved at a snail’s pace, with cars forming long queues stretching for several kilometers. The situation was mirrored in several market areas and arterial routes, where a high volume of vehicles compounded the congestion. Roads connecting Delhi and Gurugram, including the IFFCO Chowk stretch, were particularly affected, with vehicles crawling during peak evening hours as shoppers and commuters prepared for the upcoming festivities.

Traffic Police Advisories and Management Measures

In anticipation of the heightened traffic pressures, the Delhi Traffic Police issued advisories urging residents to plan their journeys carefully and avoid unnecessary travel during peak hours. Authorities highlighted that ongoing road repair work and damages at several key intersections have contributed to slower traffic flow, making it imperative for commuters to consider alternate routes and start journeys earlier than usual.

The Traffic Police advised motorists to:

• Allow extra travel time for their journeys.
• Use navigation apps to avoid congested stretches.
• Follow real-time updates from the official traffic handle @dtptraffic on X (formerly Twitter) for information on diversions and congestion.

Deployment of Traffic Personnel and Safety Measures

To manage the festive traffic surge, the Delhi Police have cancelled the leaves of all traffic personnel, ensuring maximum deployment across the city. Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Ajay Chaudhary, confirmed that officers on motorcycles have been strategically positioned to monitor and manage traffic flow efficiently.

“Maximum deployment has been made across the city. Personnel on motorcycles have been deployed, and leaves have been cancelled. We are fully prepared to manage the rush and ensure smoother movement in the coming days,” Chaudhary told PTI.

Authorities have intensified traffic management arrangements in commercial and market areas, which typically see a spike in vehicle density during the festive season. Measures are being taken to prevent bottlenecks, maintain smooth traffic movement, and ensure the safety of both motorists and pedestrians.

Impact on Commuters and Market Areas

For residents and office-goers, the traffic gridlocks have significantly increased travel times, creating frustration and disruption in daily schedules. With Diwali approaching, the surge in private vehicles, public transport, and commercial deliveries has further strained Delhi’s already congested road network.

The Delhi Traffic Police have emphasized the need for citizens to adhere strictly to traffic guidelines, follow advisories, and remain patient while navigating congested routes. Commuters are also encouraged to avoid peak-hour travel if possible and to use safer, alternate routes to minimize delays.

Looking Ahead: Traffic During the Diwali Season

Historically, the days leading up to Diwali see a dramatic increase in vehicular traffic, as people rush to markets, shopping complexes, and temples for festive preparations. With the festival scheduled for Monday, October 20, authorities anticipate that traffic congestion could intensify further, necessitating vigilant traffic management and public cooperation.

In addition to congestion, road safety remains a key concern. With increased vehicle movement, the chances of accidents rise, particularly in areas with ongoing construction or repair work. The Traffic Police have therefore prioritized deployment in such critical zones, alongside issuing public advisories to ensure safety for all road users.

Motorists are advised to plan commutes ahead of time, keep updated with traffic advisories, and follow instructions from on-ground traffic personnel. By taking these precautions, citizens can help alleviate gridlocks and navigate the city safely during one of the busiest festive periods of the year.

As Delhi prepares to celebrate Diwali, the combination of festive enthusiasm, shopping rush, and road repair work is likely to keep traffic management teams on high alert. Authorities urge citizens to exercise patience, prioritize safety, and cooperate with the police to ensure that the city can manage the Diwali rush efficiently.