New delhi is gearing up to host the India AI Impact Summit 2026, a major global technology event running from 16 to 20 February at Bharat Mandapam. With world leaders, top AI experts and thousands of delegates expected, the city administration and police have prepared an extensive plan to manage security, traffic flow and public movement.

🟢 What Will Remain Open

1. Roads and Basic Commuter Movement

Despite the high-profile event and VVIP movement:

• No roads will be completely closed to general traffic, according to delhi Police.
• Temporary halts might occur for up to 30 minutes when VIP convoys move to and from the venue.

2. Normal Road Access Outside Peak Convoy Times

Authorities have confirmed that regular traffic will generally remain open — with diversions and brief stops only during VVIP movement. Commuters can still use most important corridors such as Ring Road, Sarai Kale Khan–Ashram and lala lajpat rai Marg during non-convoy windows.

3. Alternate Routes

Police have suggested several alternate routes where possible to reduce delays:

• Ring Road
• Sarai Kale Khan–Ashram
• Lala Lajpat Rai Marg
  These corridors are expected to help commuters bypass busy central sectors during peak summit movement.

🔴 What Will Be Temporarily Affected or Closed

1. Roads Around Summit Venue

While no blanket closures are announced, temporary road blocks and diversions will be implemented repeatedly during convoy movements near the Bharat Mandapam area and adjacent zones.

Some roads expected to be impacted include:

• Mathura Road
• Rajesh Pilot Marg
• Bhairon Marg
• C-Hexagon
• SB Marg
• Akbar Road and others in the central Lutyens’ area — especially around hotels where delegates are staying.

Traffic police will manage these brief halts to allow safe passage of motorcades but will promptly reopen them when possible.

2. Schools and Movement Within 5 km Radius

Within a 5 km radius of the venue, including 34 schools, some regular movements could be disrupted due to traffic diversions. Authorities are coordinating closely with school officials, especially where board exams are ongoing, to ensure students arrive on time.

3. Increased Security Restrictions

Heavy security will mean more checkpoints, diversions and personnel on the streets, potentially slowing everyday commutes — especially at peak hours when ambassadors and delegates are en route.

🚗 Traffic Management Strategy

1. Deployment of police Personnel

• Over 4,000 police and traffic officials will be deployed across the city to manage flow and oversee VVIP movements.
• The city has been divided into 10 traffic management zones for efficient coordination.

2. Brief Halts During Convoys

Traffic might pause briefly — typically about 30 minutes — twice daily around the summit venue during scheduled convoy movements.

3. Recommended Alternate Routes

To minimise travel delays, authorities suggest:
✔ Using outer ring corridors rather than central roads
✔ Planning travel times to avoid peak VVIP movement periods
✔ Following real-time traffic updates from delhi Traffic police (via social media and advisories)

🏨 Impact Beyond Traffic

The summit is also affecting travel and accommodation:

• Luxury hotel rates in delhi have surged, with heavy bookings around the summit dates due to foreign dignitaries and global tech leaders attending.
• Public infrastructure like ambulances and emergency services will be on standby along key routes to ensure responses remain prompt despite traffic adjustments.

📌 Tips for Residents and Commuters

Plan Travel Ahead
Check traffic advisories early in the morning and avoid central routes during likely convoy times.

Use Public Transport Where Possible
Metro and buses are less likely to data-face disruptions compared to short inner-city car trips.

Allow Extra Time
Especially around areas near Bharat Mandapam, board exam schools, and major hotels.

 

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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.