A comprehensive, layered security operation is in place all over Delhi. Police, with help from over 50 Russian security officials, have checked the routes Putin’s car will take, the important government areas, and the places he will be going. National Security Guard (NSG), SWAT teams, Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), and anti-terrorism units are at key spots. They are using artificial intelligence to watch things, snipers, drones, and lots of CCTV cameras. Experienced Delhi Police officers are in charge and teams on the ground are ready to react quickly.
Putin is expected to go from the airport/Palam to Chanakyapuri along Sardar Patel Marg. Expect delays on NH8, Dhaula Kuan, Delhi Cantonment, and Sardar Patel Road. In the evening, traffic on Panchseel Marg and Shanti Path might also be diverted because of diplomats travelling in the area.
Friday hotspots and time bands
Friday morning will likely be even worse, as the President’s car goes to Raj Ghat to lay a wreath. There will be congestion near Raj Ghat, India Gate, Delhi Gate, and ITO, and traffic will be controlled on the main roads in central Delhi between 9am and tnoon.
Specific areas where traffic will be managed are W Point, A Point, ITO Chowk, BSZ Marg, Delhi Gate, JLN Marg, Rajghat Crossing, Shanti Van Crossing, Hanuman Setu-Y Point, Netaji Subhash Marg, Nishad Raj Marg, Saleem Garh Flyover By-Pass, MGM-Pragati Maidan Tunnel to Hanuman Setu, and Kashmere Gate, Vikas Marg, IP Marg.
The event at Bharat Mandapam with Prime Minister Modi in the afternoon could cause gridlock on Mathura Road, Mandi House, and Bhairo Road. Later, the state dinner at the President’s house (Rashtrapati Bhavan) will mean diversions near India Gate, Central Secretariat, and the surrounding streets.
Metro, parking and commuter guidance
The Delhi traffic advice says some metro stations may temporarily close their entrances and exits during the visit. So, when using the metro, allow more time for your journey, check for alerts specific to each station, and be prepared to change lines if a station is closed.
You will only be able to park in specific places. Parking is banned on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, JLN Marg, on Ring Road from Hanuman Setu to Shanti Van to Rajghat, from IP Flyover to Pragati Maidan Tunnel, and from Nishad Raj Marg to IP Marg. Cars parked in these areas will be towed and you will be fined.
For up to the minute information, check the Delhi Traffic Police on X (formerly Twitter). Drivers should avoid the roads mentioned above during the busiest times and use other routes if possible. Using public transport, sharing cars, or travelling at quieter times can help lessen delays.
What to expect on the itinerary
After he arrives, Putin is going to the ITC Maurya in Chanakyapuri. He will also lay a wreath at Raj Ghat, have a formal welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, have talks with Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House, attend a business event, and meet President Droupadi Murmu.
A lot of security will be at Bharat Mandapam, with layers of protection around Pragati Maidan, India Gate, and Central Secretariat. Expect roads to close and change at short notice as the President’s car moves between locations.
Why this visit matters
This is Putin’s first visit to India since the war in Ukraine began. The two day visit will include the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, and will concentrate on trade, working together on defence, and energy supplies. The visit shows India is trying to have good relationships with both Russia and countries in the West.
They may discuss the war in Ukraine, Afghanistan, making sure they have enough energy, transferring technology, and finding new places to invest money. They are expected to make agreements to make trade, transport, and long-term energy deals happen more quickly.
Plan ahead, travel smart
If you have to go through central Delhi, leave earlier than usual, allow extra time, and have your papers with you. Use a navigation app to find a way around NH8, Dhaula Kuan, Delhi Cantonment, Sardar Patel Marg, Shanti Path, and the ITO-India Gate area when they are closed.
Because of the increased security and the Delhi traffic advice, you should expect delays. However, by staying up to date and being willing to change your plans, you can avoid the worst of the traffic during Putin’s visit to India.
