New Delhi, October 19, 2025: In preparation for the Diwali festival, the Delhi Police undertook one of the city’s largest-ever deployments, positioning over 23,000 personnel across the national capital to manage the anticipated surge in vehicular and pedestrian movement. Despite the massive deployment, traffic congestion continued to plague central and south Delhi, particularly in areas surrounding major markets and shopping hubs where festive shopping is at its peak.

Delhi Police spokesperson and Additional Commissioner of Police, Sanjay Tyagi, provided a comprehensive overview of the measures taken. According to him, more than 3,500 traffic personnel were stationed at key intersections, arterial stretches, and commercial areas prone to congestion, while nearly 20,000 personnel from district police units, special task forces, and other specialized wings were deployed to maintain law and order and manage crowds effectively.

“Women police staff have been strategically deployed across intersections and crowded public areas to enhance visibility and ensure safety for women travelling or shopping late into the evening,” Tyagi said. The initiative is part of the department’s broader strategy to create a secure environment for families, particularly in areas that experience significant footfall during the festival.

In addition to regular police units, commandos and paramilitary forces, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), were positioned in sensitive zones across the city. Deputy Commissioner of Police (North), Raja Banthia, noted that in areas such as Chandni Chowk, police conducted thorough checks and maintained a heightened security presence, with RAF units ready to respond to any untoward incident. “Extra deployment has been made in Central and South Delhi, where both crowd density and vehicular movement spike significantly during the Diwali weekend,” Tyagi added.

Despite the extensive preparations, long traffic snarls were reported throughout Saturday. Key commercial and market areas including Connaught Place, Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, South Extension, Greater Kailash, and Chandni Chowk experienced heavy congestion, with traffic crawling at a near standstill in some stretches. The congestion also extended to major arterial roads, such as the Ring Road, Mathura Road, Aurobindo Marg, and the Outer Ring Road, as shoppers flocked to markets to complete last-minute festive purchases.

Traffic police officials said that diversions were implemented wherever necessary, and additional marshals were deployed to regulate traffic flow. Motorists were advised to rely on public transport wherever possible and avoid heavily crowded market areas during peak hours to mitigate delays.

Over the years, the Diwali weekend has consistently tested Delhi’s road network. The combination of intercity travel, increased market activity, and public gatherings exerts immense pressure on traffic management authorities. The measures undertaken this year, according to Delhi Police, were designed not only to minimize vehicular delays but also to ensure an incident-free festive season, particularly given the large crowds expected in markets and public spaces.

“Our focus is not just on managing traffic but also on creating a safe and secure atmosphere for women and families celebrating the festival. All units are on alert,” Tyagi emphasized.

Police officials also highlighted the continuity of deployments, stating that personnel would remain on duty throughout the weekend and continue operations into the post-Diwali period, extending till October 21, when markets and roads are expected to remain crowded due to ongoing festive activities and shopping. The department underscored the importance of vigilance and coordination across various units to ensure smooth management of both traffic and crowd-related challenges during the peak festive period.

In addition to routine traffic management, officers are monitoring areas known for high footfall and potential security vulnerabilities. The deployment includes rapid response teams capable of addressing emergencies, managing crowds, and preventing any untoward incidents in markets and commercial zones. The comprehensive planning also extends to sensitive zones such as major railway stations, metro stations, and bus terminals, where the influx of commuters and festival-goers is expected to spike.

The Delhi Police has urged citizens to cooperate with traffic personnel, adhere to road safety norms, and exercise patience while navigating congested areas. Authorities have also encouraged residents to plan travel during off-peak hours, use public transport options such as the metro and buses, and remain vigilant in crowded areas.

The extensive deployment and proactive measures highlight the police’s dual focus this Diwali: ensuring smooth traffic movement across the capital while creating a safe environment for families and women enjoying the festive celebrations. Despite the traffic snarls that have already emerged, the authorities are optimistic that ongoing monitoring, diversions, and additional personnel will help mitigate the worst of the congestion in the coming days.