Delhi Travel Advisory for BRICS Summit 2026: Airport, Train Travel and Traffic Restrictions

Travellers heading to Delhi this weekend are being advised to plan their journeys carefully as the capital prepares to host the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit from September 11 to 13, 2026.

The summit will take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, bringing international leaders and delegations to the capital. In preparation, Delhi Traffic Police has announced extensive traffic controls, diversions and security arrangements across several parts of the city.

For passengers travelling to Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station or Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station, the changes could mean longer journey times.

Delhi BRICS Summit 2026: When Will Traffic Restrictions Apply?

The main traffic restrictions are expected between September 11 and September 13, coinciding with the BRICS Summit.

Authorities have identified more than 35 roads for traffic control and 22 diversion points to facilitate the movement of international dignitaries and security convoys.

Traffic arrangements may change depending on the movement of VIP convoys and security requirements, so travellers are advised to check updates before leaving.

Travelling to Delhi Airport? Leave Early

Passengers catching flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport have been specifically advised to allow additional travel time.

Delhi Traffic Police has recommended using the Metro wherever possible, particularly for travellers who want to avoid road congestion during the summit period.

This could be particularly important for passengers with early-morning or evening flights, when road diversions and VIP movements may cause unexpected delays.

Travellers Should:

• Leave for the airport earlier than usual.

• Check the latest traffic advisory before starting the journey.

• Consider the Delhi Metro instead of travelling by road.

• Keep extra time for security checks and possible traffic diversions.

• Check with the airline for any last-minute flight updates.

Railway Passengers Also Need to Plan Ahead

The traffic restrictions are not limited to airport routes.

Passengers travelling to New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station have also been given alternative route recommendations by the traffic authorities.

If you have a train departure during the summit weekend, it is advisable to reach the station well ahead of the scheduled departure time.

Which Parts of Delhi Could See Restrictions?

Several important roads in central and south Delhi could experience regulated traffic or diversions.

Routes mentioned in the traffic advisory include areas around Mathura Road, Janpath, Ashoka Road, Shanti Path, Teen Murti Marg, Sardar Patel Marg, Africa Avenue, Panchsheel Marg and several other major corridors.

The restrictions are primarily intended to facilitate the movement of international leaders and delegations.
Also Read : 5 Heritage Walks in Old Delhi You Can Do This Weekend

Delhi Metro Remains a Useful Option

For travellers moving around Delhi during the summit, the Metro is expected to be one of the more reliable options.

According to the traffic advisory, Metro services will continue to operate, while buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws may be affected by temporary road diversions during VIP movements.

Passengers travelling to the airport can therefore consider using the Metro for a more predictable journey, particularly when travelling through areas affected by road restrictions.

Rain Could Add to Travel Delays

Weather could be another factor for Delhi travellers this weekend.

The India Meteorological Department has forecast spells of rain and thunderstorms during the summit period, with rain expected particularly on September 12 and 13. Wet weather could add to congestion and increase travel times on already restricted routes.

Travellers should therefore keep some additional buffer time when planning airport or railway journeys.

What Should Tourists Visiting Delhi Do?

Tourists who already have hotel bookings or sightseeing plans in Delhi do not necessarily need to cancel their trips.

However, visitors should be prepared for temporary changes in road access and longer journey times.

If you are planning to visit popular areas around central Delhi, check traffic conditions before leaving your hotel. Using the Metro where practical can help avoid some road congestion.

Travellers should also avoid relying on fixed road journey times during the summit because restrictions may be introduced or adjusted depending on security movements.

Will Delhi Airport Flights Be Cancelled?

The traffic restrictions themselves do not mean that flights from Delhi Airport will be cancelled.

The main concern for passengers is reaching the airport on time. Road restrictions and diversions could increase the time required to travel to IGI Airport.

Passengers should therefore check their flight status directly with their airline and leave earlier than normal.

BRICS Summit 2026: Key Travel Tips

If you're travelling through Delhi between September 11 and 13, keep these points in mind:

Airport passengers: Leave early and consider the Metro.

Train passengers: Allow extra time to reach New Delhi, Old Delhi or Hazrat Nizamuddin stations.

Road travellers: Check diversions before starting your journey.

Tourists: Avoid unnecessary travel through controlled areas.

Taxi and auto users: Expect possible route changes.

Weather: Keep extra buffer time in case rain affects traffic.

Final Takeaway

Delhi is preparing for one of its biggest international events of the year, and the BRICS Summit 2026 is expected to bring significant traffic and security arrangements to the capital from September 11 to 13.

For travellers, the most important advice is simple: plan ahead, leave early and use the Metro whenever possible.

If you're catching a flight or train this weekend, don't rely on normal Delhi travel times. Checking traffic updates before leaving could make the difference between a smooth journey and a missed departure.