Delhi Police has advised commuters to plan their journeys in advance as the national capital prepares to host the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit from September 11 to 13, with traffic regulations and diversions expected across several key routes.

The summit will be held at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, bringing foreign leaders, delegates and security personnel to Delhi. The movement of high-level delegations is expected to affect traffic, particularly in central Delhi and along routes connecting the summit venue with major hotels, railway stations and the airport. 

Police asks commuters to plan travel

Delhi Police has urged residents and visitors to factor additional travel time into their journeys and remain alert to changing traffic conditions.

Commuters travelling through areas affected by security arrangements may face temporary diversions or regulated movement depending on the movement of VVIP convoys. Authorities have advised people to follow instructions from traffic personnel and use alternative routes wherever necessary. 

Delhi Metro recommended

With traffic restrictions expected on important road corridors, commuters have been encouraged to use public transport, particularly the Delhi Metro, wherever possible.

The advisory is intended to reduce pressure on roads during periods when traffic movement may be temporarily regulated for the movement of dignitaries and official convoys. 

More than 35 roads may be affected

Previous traffic advisories issued as part of BRICS preparations have identified more than 35 roads that could experience regulated movement or diversions.

The affected corridors include stretches around Sardar Patel Marg, Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti Marg, Janpath, Ashoka Road, Barakhamba Road, Mathura Road, Lodhi Road and other important routes in central, south and southwest Delhi.

Traffic officials have also identified multiple diversion points to manage vehicle movement during motorcade operations.

Airport and railway commuters advised to allow extra time

People travelling to or from Indira Gandhi International Airport and major railway stations have been advised to allow additional time for their journeys.

Traffic arrangements during the summit period may change depending on the movement of foreign dignitaries. Commuters have therefore been advised to check traffic updates before starting their journey and avoid unnecessary travel through high-security corridors when restrictions are active.

Summit scheduled for September 11-13

India is hosting the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi as the country holds the BRICS chairmanship in 2026.

The main summit is scheduled for September 12 and 13 at Bharat Mandapam, while wider security and traffic arrangements are being implemented around the event period. Delegates are expected to begin arriving in Delhi before the main leaders’ meeting. 

Security arrangements tightened

The traffic measures form part of a wider security operation for the international gathering. Delhi Police has also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as heightened security arrangements remain in place in the New Delhi district. 

For daily commuters, the key advice is to leave early, keep additional travel time, use public transport where practical and follow traffic police directions. Conditions are expected to change depending on the movement of visiting delegations and security requirements during the summit.

Farmers protesting over moong procurement, the e-token system and other agriculture-related demands continued their agitation in Bhopal for the second consecutive day on Wednesday, with many preparing to march towards the Chief Minister's residence. Authorities have deployed heavy police forces and imposed traffic restrictions across key parts of the city to prevent any law-and-order issues.

Police have barricaded multiple roads leading to the CM House, causing significant traffic congestion on Narmadapuram Road, Hoshangabad Road, AIIMS Square, Bansal Plaza and nearby areas. In view of the disruptions, Bhopal Collector Priyank Mishra ordered the closure of all government and private schools located along the Narmadapuram Road corridor.

Farmers Continue Sit-in, Cook Dal-Baati at Protest Site

Despite the prolonged protest, farmers continued their daily routine at the demonstration venue. Many who spent the night at the site rested wherever space was available, while others prepared traditional dal-baati for lunch.

The protesters also invited political leaders to visit the venue, share a meal with them and engage in discussions over their demands.

Women participants and young supporters joined the protest by preparing placards and banners carrying slogans in support of the agitation.

'Sadbuddhi Yagya' Held Against Government

Farmers organised a 'Sadbuddhi Yagya' (prayer ritual), saying it was meant to invoke wisdom for the government to address their concerns.

Protesters alleged that while inflation continues to rise, farmers are still not receiving fair prices for their produce. Several participants claimed they are facing severe financial distress due to delayed procurement and inadequate crop prices.

Security Tightened Ahead of CM House March

With farmer groups announcing a march towards the Chief Minister's residence later in the day, police have significantly strengthened security arrangements.

Heavy police deployment has been made near Veer Savarkar Setu and other approach roads leading to the CM House. Government buses have also been stationed near barricades to block any attempt by protesters to move ahead.

Additional Police Commissioner Shailendra Singh Chauhan said elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure law and order while restricting protesters from entering high-security zones.

Farmers Allege Removal of Basic Facilities

Protesters accused the administration of attempting to weaken the movement by removing essential facilities from the protest site.

According to the farmers, water tankers, temporary toilets and other basic amenities were withdrawn. They maintained that despite these difficulties, the agitation would continue until their demands are met.

CM Says Ministers' Panel Will Hold Talks

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said the state government remains committed to resolving farmers' issues through dialogue.

He announced that a committee of ministers has been constituted to hold discussions with the protesting farmers and assured that another round of talks would take place on Wednesday.

The Chief Minister also appealed to protesters to ensure that public life is not disrupted during the agitation.

Students Join Farmers' Protest

The protest witnessed support from students and members of Gen Z, who joined farmers carrying posters and handwritten placards.

A nine-year-old child participating in the demonstration said he had come to support farmers and urged the government to procure moong crops.

Farmers also raised slogans criticising the state government while expressing appreciation for the police personnel managing the protest site.

The agitation is expected to intensify later in the day if protesters proceed with their proposed march towards the Chief Minister's residence.

The Chaturmas programme of Jain saint 108 Acharya Shri Samay Sagar Maharaj has drawn an overwhelming response from devotees at the Habibganj Jain Temple in Bhopal, prompting authorities to introduce special traffic management measures to handle the increasing number of visitors. With devotees arriving daily from Bhopal as well as neighboring districts, the temple premises have become a major spiritual gathering point during the ongoing religious observance.

The Chaturmas period holds immense religious significance in Jainism and is considered one of the most important times of the year for spiritual learning, religious discourses, meditation, and self-discipline. During this sacred period, Jain monks traditionally stay at one location instead of traveling, allowing devotees to participate in sermons and religious activities over several weeks. The presence of Acharya Shri Samay Sagar Maharaj has significantly increased the number of worshippers attending the daily programmes at the Habibganj Jain Temple.

As the number of visitors continues to rise, Bhopal Police has implemented a comprehensive traffic and parking plan to ensure smooth movement around the temple and minimize inconvenience to commuters. Officials expect the area to witness heavy traffic every morning, particularly during the hours when religious events attract the largest gatherings.

According to the revised traffic plan, vehicle movement between Mansarovar and Pragati Square will remain completely diverted every day from 7:00 a.m. until the conclusion of the religious programme. Authorities have appealed to residents and regular commuters to use alternative routes and cooperate with traffic personnel deployed along the diversion points.

The new traffic arrangement has been designed to maintain public safety while allowing uninterrupted movement of devotees entering and leaving the temple premises. Since the area experiences a substantial influx of private vehicles and buses during the programme, traffic regulation has become essential to prevent congestion.

Vehicles approaching from the Mansarovar side will now be diverted through Mahavir Gate, Nutan College, and Vyapam Square before proceeding toward the Board Office area. This diversion is expected to reduce pressure on roads surrounding the temple while maintaining access to nearby neighborhoods.

Traffic moving beyond the Board Office Square will be redirected through Jyoti Talkies, Chetak Bridge, ISBT, and the RRL route. These diversions have been planned to keep through traffic away from the temple zone, where pedestrian movement is expected to remain exceptionally high throughout the programme.

Authorities have also advised railway passengers to begin their journeys well in advance, as travel time to the railway station may increase due to diversions and temporary congestion. Travelers have been encouraged to follow traffic updates and select alternate routes whenever possible to avoid delays.

For motorists heading toward Narmadapuram and Mandideep, police have recommended using the GG Flyover as the preferred route during the Chaturmas period. This measure is expected to ease traffic flow while preventing unnecessary bottlenecks around the Habibganj area.

In addition to traffic diversions, a dedicated parking arrangement has been introduced for devotees attending the religious event. Four-wheelers arriving at the programme will be directed to designated parking spaces located on the left-side road of MP Nagar. Officials have clearly stated that parking vehicles along roads surrounding the temple premises will not be permitted during the event.

The parking restrictions are intended to keep emergency routes clear and ensure uninterrupted traffic movement in one of the city's busiest commercial and residential zones. Traffic personnel and volunteers will remain present to guide visitors toward authorized parking locations.

Special arrangements have also been made for buses transporting groups of devotees. Such buses will drop passengers near the Pragati Petrol Pump Square before proceeding via the Board Office route to the ISBT bus parking area, where they will remain stationed until passengers return after the religious programme. This system is expected to reduce congestion near the temple entrance while improving passenger safety.

The Chaturmas programme has become one of the major religious gatherings currently taking place in Bhopal, attracting followers from across Madhya Pradesh. Devotees continue to participate enthusiastically in daily sermons, prayers, and spiritual discourses delivered by Acharya Shri Samay Sagar Maharaj, reflecting the deep religious significance of the occasion.

Police officials have appealed to both devotees and the general public to cooperate with the revised traffic regulations and follow the directions issued by traffic personnel. Citizens have also been requested not to park vehicles in unauthorized areas and to exercise patience while traveling through nearby routes during programme hours.

With thousands expected to continue visiting the Habibganj Jain Temple throughout the Chaturmas period, the temporary traffic measures are likely to remain in effect until the conclusion of the religious programme. Authorities believe the arrangements will help balance public convenience with the successful conduct of one of the city's largest ongoing spiritual events.

Madhya Pradesh's capital city is set for a day of intense political, social, and cultural activity on Monday, July 20, as multiple demonstrations, the commencement of the State Assembly session, and youth-oriented events take place across the city. Authorities are expected to maintain heightened security, while commuters have been advised to anticipate traffic congestion in several parts of Bhopal due to large public gatherings.

The biggest political development of the day is the beginning of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly session. With legislators, ministers, government officials, and political workers arriving at the Assembly premises, the Arera Hills area is expected to witness increased movement throughout the day. Security arrangements have been strengthened around the Assembly building, and police personnel have been deployed at key intersections to ensure smooth movement and maintain law and order.

Apart from the legislative proceedings, several organizations have announced demonstrations over different public issues. These protests are likely to attract significant participation, making Monday one of the busiest days in the city in recent weeks.

One of the major events scheduled for the day is the farmers' movement related to the Greater Ring Road project. Farmers affected by the proposed infrastructure development have planned protest activities, including a tractor rally, to highlight their demands and concerns regarding land acquisition and compensation. A large number of tractors are expected to arrive from nearby districts and rural areas, which could slow traffic movement on roads connected to the Greater Ring Road and adjoining routes.

Traffic authorities are expected to monitor the movement of the rally carefully and may implement diversions if required. Commuters traveling through the city's outer roads have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly, especially during the morning hours when the rally is expected to gain momentum.

Another significant demonstration has been announced by the OBC Mahasabha. The organization plans to stage a protest during the ongoing Assembly session while pressing for its various demands. Since demonstrations near the Assembly complex are subject to security regulations, police authorities may restrict protesters from reaching the main Assembly premises and instead direct them to designated protest locations established through barricading.

The protest is expected to draw participants from different districts of Madhya Pradesh, adding to the political atmosphere surrounding the first day of the Assembly session. Law enforcement agencies are likely to remain on alert to ensure peaceful conduct and prevent any disruption to legislative proceedings.

Alongside these developments, outsourced and contractual employees have also scheduled a "Justice for Employees" gathering in Bhopal. The meeting is expected to focus on employment security, salary-related concerns, regularization of services, and other workplace issues affecting temporary workers across various government departments.

Organizers expect representatives from multiple employee groups to participate in the event. The gathering is scheduled to begin around noon at a designated protest venue, although participants have been advised to verify the exact location through organizers before attending.

The simultaneous occurrence of multiple demonstrations highlights the diverse range of public concerns currently being raised in the state capital. Administrative authorities are expected to coordinate closely with police officials to manage public gatherings while ensuring that routine city life continues with minimal disruption.

Despite the day's political intensity, Bhopal will also host events celebrating creativity and youth participation. In the evening, AIIMS Bhopal is scheduled to organize an Open Mic event that will provide a platform for students, artists, and performers to showcase their talents through poetry, storytelling, singing, music, and other stage performances.

The event will take place at Room No. 101 on the first floor of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Bhavan within the AIIMS Bhopal campus. Beginning at 4:00 p.m., the program aims to encourage creative expression and community interaction among participants. Entry to the event is expected to be free, making it accessible to students and visitors interested in cultural activities.

The contrast between political demonstrations during the day and artistic performances in the evening reflects the diverse character of Bhopal, where civic engagement and cultural expression often coexist. While government institutions prepare for important legislative discussions, citizens from different sections of society continue to use democratic platforms to voice their concerns and aspirations.

Authorities have urged residents to remain updated on traffic advisories throughout the day, particularly those traveling through Arera Hills, the Assembly area, Greater Ring Road routes, and other locations where demonstrations are expected. Additional police deployment, temporary road diversions, and increased vehicle checks may be introduced depending on crowd movement and security requirements.

Overall, Monday is expected to be one of the most eventful days in Bhopal, bringing together politics, public activism, employee issues, agricultural concerns, and cultural engagement. Whether through legislative debates inside the Assembly, demonstrations on city streets, or artistic performances at AIIMS Bhopal, the capital is set to witness a full spectrum of activities that reflect the city's vibrant civic and social landscape.

The temporary diversion route across the Parvati River connecting Bhopal and Rajgarh districts has been closed to traffic after rising water levels submerged the crossing following continuous rainfall. The restriction came into effect late Monday night after the local administration declared the route unsafe for commuters.

Berasia Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Ashutosh Sharma issued the order, citing a sharp increase in the river's water level that has inundated the temporary alternative road constructed in the middle of the river on the Berasia–Narsinghgarh route.

According to the administration, the strong water current has made movement across the diversion highly dangerous, prompting authorities to suspend all vehicular and pedestrian traffic until further orders.

Safety Measures Ordered

The SDM has directed concerned departments to immediately install barricades, warning boards and safety signages around the restricted area to prevent people from attempting to cross the flooded route.

Officials have also been instructed to ensure continuous monitoring of the site as long as the restriction remains in force.

Departments Asked to Maintain Vigil

To enforce the order, responsibilities have been assigned to the Tehsildar, Naib Tehsildar, Janpad Panchayat officials, the Public Works Department (PWD) and the local police.

The administration has asked officials to maintain round-the-clock surveillance and deploy security personnel wherever required. Citizens will also be guided towards safer alternative routes to avoid any untoward incident during the ongoing monsoon.

Authorities have warned that anyone violating the restriction will face legal action under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, along with other applicable laws.

Diversion Was Created After Bridge Damage

The temporary route has been serving as an alternative since the 49-year-old Parvati River bridge on the Berasia–Narsinghgarh road developed structural damage earlier this year.

The bridge, originally built in 1976, reportedly sank at one location on January 17, 2025, forcing the administration to prohibit traffic over it. Subsequently, water from the nearby stop dam was released and a temporary diversion route was constructed to restore connectivity.

Until the recent spell of heavy rainfall, buses, trucks, cars and two-wheelers had been using the diversion. However, the rising river level has now rendered it unsafe.

Repeated Incidents Raised Safety Concerns

The temporary crossing has witnessed several accidents over the past year. During the previous monsoon season, a passenger bus tilted while attempting to cross the flooded diversion. In another incident, a tractor-trolley fell into the stop dam after slipping off the temporary road. Although all four occupants escaped safely, the incidents highlighted the risks associated with the route during heavy rainfall.

Officials said the latest closure has been ordered to prevent similar accidents as the Parvati River continues to swell.

Vital Link Between Several Districts

The Parvati River bridge, located near Meghra Navin village in Bhopal district and connecting to Baraytha village in Rajgarh district, is an important transport corridor linking Bhopal with Rajgarh, Guna, Vidisha, Shivpuri, Ashoknagar, Agar Malwa, Shajapur, Indore and Ujjain.

The route also provides connectivity to the Agra–Mumbai National Highway, making it one of the region's key transport links.

Before the bridge developed structural issues, an estimated 1.5 to 2 lakh commuters used the route daily. Since the bridge was closed and traffic shifted to the temporary diversion, daily movement has reduced significantly to around 8,000–10,000 commuters.

Authorities have advised travellers to avoid the flooded stretch and follow designated alternative routes until water levels recede and the administration lifts the restriction.

Cricket fans in Chhattisgarh are gearing up for a high-voltage clash as Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders face each other at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur on Wednesday evening. The much-anticipated match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 pm and has generated massive excitement among spectators across the region. There is also strong buzz surrounding the possible arrival of Bollywood actor and Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, who may attend the match to support his franchise.

Rain Threat Looms Large

Even as excitement builds around the match, the weather department has predicted the possibility of thunderstorms and rainfall in Raipur during the evening hours. Officials are closely monitoring weather conditions as rain could potentially affect the game and crowd movement around the stadium.

The forecast has also raised concerns regarding traffic congestion and spectator management, especially with thousands of cricket fans expected to attend the encounter. Authorities said contingency arrangements are being kept ready in case of sudden weather disruptions.

Traffic Advisory Issued

Ahead of the RCB-KKR clash, Raipur Traffic Police released a detailed traffic and parking plan to manage heavy vehicular movement near the stadium. According to the advisory, spectators travelling from Raipur city will have to use the Telibandha police station route, National Highway-53, Serikhedi overbridge, and Naya Raipur road to reach the stadium. Officials stated that designated parking facilities have been arranged in the eastern section near Parsada and Kosa parking areas. In case the primary parking areas become full, additional arrangements have been made near Shri Satya Sai Hospital and Sendh Talab. Separate routes have also been planned for visitors arriving from Bilaspur, Balodabazar, Dhamtari, Jagdalpur, Durg-Bhilai, and Mahasamund.

Teams Prepare Intensely

Both Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders held intense practice sessions at the Raipur stadium ahead of the crucial match. Players focused heavily on power-hitting drills, death-over batting strategies, and fast scoring techniques during net sessions. Bowlers, meanwhile, practised yorkers, slower deliveries, and line-and-length execution for pressure situations in the final overs. Team managements appeared focused on adapting to local pitch conditions and evening weather factors ahead of the contest.

Fans Arrive in Large Numbers

Large crowds gathered outside the stadium during practice sessions to catch a glimpse of their favourite players. Security arrangements remained tight throughout the training period, with fans being allowed only in limited viewing areas. Police personnel and private security staff maintained strict monitoring around the stadium premises to prevent overcrowding and ensure smooth movement of spectators. Authorities expect attendance to rise significantly closer to match time due to strong public interest in the game.

Complaints Over Stadium Facilities

While excitement over the match remains high, several complaints regarding stadium management and spectator facilities have surfaced after the previous match held on May 10. Many spectators alleged that food and beverages were being sold at extremely inflated prices inside the stadium. Social media users claimed that a water bottle priced around Rs 20 in the market was sold for nearly Rs 150 inside the venue.

Similarly, pizza and snack items were reportedly sold at prices far higher than regular retail rates. Fans also complained that no official rate list was displayed at food counters, allowing vendors to charge arbitrary prices. The stadium management has not yet issued an official response regarding these allegations.

Network Failure Caused Chaos

Another major issue reported during the previous match was mobile network failure around the stadium area. Organisers had reportedly arranged temporary mobile towers to handle increased traffic during the event, but many spectators faced severe internet and connectivity problems.

The situation caused difficulties especially for fans carrying e-tickets, as QR codes reportedly failed to load on mobile devices at entry gates. Long queues and confusion were witnessed outside several entry points as spectators searched for better network signals to access their digital tickets. Officials are now expected to improve communication infrastructure ahead of Wednesday’s game to avoid similar disruptions.

Security Measures Tightened

Security arrangements have been strengthened following concerns raised during the earlier match. During the previous game, several individuals reportedly entered restricted areas despite barricades and fencing around the stadium premises. Eyewitnesses claimed that some youths climbed over metal barriers and fencing to gain entry into the venue. Crowd control reportedly became difficult at certain locations due to limited security manpower. This time, additional police deployment and stricter access monitoring have been arranged to prevent unauthorised entry and maintain order during the match.

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Raipur Braces for RCB-MI Clash Under Rain Cloud, Swing-Friendly Conditions Expected

The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Naya Raipur is set to host a high-voltage IPL encounter between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians today, with weather concerns and a moisture-laden pitch promising early help for fast bowlers.

Rain Likely But Not a Washout

Officials from the local meteorological department indicated that while clouds will build up by evening, the rainfall isn’t expected to be as heavy as what lashed the city on Saturday. “Light dust-raising winds are possible, but conditions do not point toward a complete abandonment,” a source familiar with the forecast said.

Saturday’s sharp spell had left the outfield damp, forcing teams to adjust their practice schedules. Virat Kohli was seen walking back early as a precaution.

 Swing and Seam on Offer Early

Ground staff worked through Sunday morning to prepare the surface. But with residual moisture underneath, the first hour could see the ball moving around. Fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah – who was observed discussing his run-up and fitness during nets – might find helpful zip off the surface.

According to initial assessments, batters may need time to settle in. The pitch tends to get better as the game progresses. Historically, in six IPL matches played here, chasing sides have won four times, suggesting captains could prefer bowling first if they win the toss.

 Digital-Only Entry, Gates Open at 3:30 PM

Organisers have introduced a mandatory M-ticket system. No physical tickets will be redeemed at the venue. A QR code will become accessible to spectators only a short while before the gates open at 3:30 PM.

“The system is meant to tighten security and prevent counterfeit entries,” an organiser stated. Re-entry is not permitted, and children above two years require a separate ticket.

 Traffic Plan and Banned Items List

Raipur traffic police have released a route chart for spectators. Parking areas are located roughly 1.5 to 2 kilometres from the stadium gates. Officials advise fans to factor in walking time and arrive early.

Prohibited items include stools, umbrellas, sharp objects, glass containers, large handbags, laptops, cameras, perfume sprays, and even pens or pencils. Laser lights, firecrackers, flags, and promotional material are also banned.

Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh reviewed the arrangements at the stadium on Sunday. Additional volunteers have been deployed to manage crowd movement. CCTV surveillance will cover the entire complex.

 What to Expect as Match Nears

With the toss scheduled for 7:00 PM and first ball at 7:30 PM, much will depend on how much of the overnight moisture has dried. Spinners could come into play earlier than usual if the surface remains tacky.

For now, fans are keeping their fingers crossed – not just for a result, but for an uninterrupted contest between two of IPL’s biggest draws.