Delhi Traffic Police has warned of traffic congestion and possible diversions on key roads in East Delhi between 5 pm and 8 pm on Tuesday, October 20, as Dussehra celebrations are expected to draw large crowds across the national capital.

Commuters travelling through East Delhi during the evening rush have been advised to plan alternative routes and allow extra time for their journeys. Heavy movement of vehicles and pedestrians is expected around celebration venues, where Ramlila events and Ravana effigy-burning ceremonies are scheduled.

Delhi Traffic Advisory: Roads Likely to Be Affected

According to the traffic advisory, diversions will be introduced on major arterial roads in East Delhi as required, depending on crowd and traffic conditions.

The roads likely to be affected include:

NH-24

Vikas Marg

Road No. 57

Road No. 57A

Road No. 56

The traffic restrictions are intended to manage the expected influx of devotees, visitors and pedestrians during the festivities.

Delhi Traffic Police has asked motorists to consider alternative routes while travelling through East Delhi during the peak evening hours.

Commuters have also been advised to:

  • Leave extra time for their journeys.
  • Park only in designated parking areas, as illegal roadside parking may invite strict enforcement.
  • Drive slowly near Dussehra celebration grounds, where pedestrian movement is expected to be heavy.
  • Travellers heading towards major Ramlila venues should account for possible delays, particularly during the 5 pm to 8 pm window.

Security Tightened Across Dussehra Venues

Alongside traffic management, Delhi Police has strengthened security arrangements at festival venues across the capital.

DCP (West District) Hareshwar V Swami said police personnel had been deployed at 43 Ramlila venues and 16 Durga Puja locations across the district. Female police personnel and additional Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel will also support security arrangements on Dussehra.

Joint Commissioner of Police Suman Goyal said arrangements had been made to manage large crowds and VIP movements across the Western Range, including Dwarka and other areas. Police have been tasked with maintaining order, managing movement and ensuring that celebrations proceed peacefully.

In the Central Range, DCP Traffic K Ramesh said special traffic arrangements had been in place for the past 10 days during Ramlila events. Traffic personnel have been deployed at key junctions, including Hanuman Mandir and Delhi Gate, to assist commuters and manage the expected crowds and VIP movements.

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, marks the triumph of good over evil. The festival traditionally commemorates Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and concludes the nine-day Navratri celebrations.