NEW DELHI: Thousands of commuters across the national capital faced another day of travel disruption on Thursday as 17 Delhi Metro stations remained closed due to heightened security arrangements linked to the ongoing CJP protest. The continued suspension of entry and exit at several key stations led to heavy congestion on roads, overcrowded buses, and longer travel times for office-goers, students, and visitors.
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The restrictions, imposed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) in coordination with security agencies, affected several important stations in central Delhi, including major interchange hubs. While trains continued to run through many of the affected stations without stopping, passengers were unable to board or exit, forcing them to alter their travel plans significantly.
Security Measures Intensified Around Protest Areas
Authorities tightened security across central Delhi as protests continued near Jantar Mantar and adjoining areas. Police personnel were deployed in large numbers to maintain law and order, while barricades and traffic diversions were put in place to regulate movement around sensitive locations.
Officials said the metro restrictions were introduced as a precautionary measure to prevent overcrowding near protest venues and to ensure public safety. Although the measures caused inconvenience to commuters, authorities maintained that the steps were necessary considering the scale of the demonstrations.
The Delhi Police also increased surveillance in several parts of the city and appealed to residents to cooperate with security arrangements while using alternative routes wherever possible.
Commuters Face Long Delays and Crowded Alternatives
The closure of key metro stations had a ripple effect across Delhi’s transport network. Long queues were seen at bus stops, while auto-rickshaws and taxis witnessed a sharp rise in demand during peak hours. Many commuters reported extended travel times as they were forced to change routes or rely on road transport.
Passengers heading toward Connaught Place, ITO, Mandi House, Janpath and nearby business districts were among the worst affected. Several office workers said their daily commute took nearly twice as long compared to normal days because of traffic congestion and limited transport options.
Public buses experienced unusually heavy crowds throughout the morning, while ride-hailing services also reported increased demand in central Delhi.
Businesses Also Feel the Impact
Apart from commuters, businesses located near the affected areas also experienced disruptions. Shops, restaurants and commercial establishments around Connaught Place witnessed reduced customer footfall as transportation restrictions discouraged visitors from entering the area.
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Some traders expressed concern over declining business activity, while delivery services and logistics operations also encountered delays due to restricted movement and traffic diversions.
Digital payment-dependent vendors in certain areas were additionally impacted by communication restrictions imposed near the protest zones, affecting routine commercial transactions.
Judiciary Notes Commuter Concerns
The disruption even drew attention during court proceedings. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the closure of metro stations, observing that lawyers, litigants and court staff were facing considerable difficulty reaching the Supreme Court.
The Chief Justice indicated that the judiciary was closely monitoring the situation and remarked that intervention could be considered if the disruption continued without resolution.
The observation highlighted the wider impact of transport restrictions beyond daily commuters, affecting judicial and administrative functioning in the capital.
Authorities Urge Public to Stay Updated
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation advised passengers to check official service updates before beginning their journey. Officials stated that restrictions would remain subject to security assessments and could be revised depending on the law-and-order situation.
Passengers were encouraged to use alternative stations wherever possible and allow additional travel time during the ongoing disruptions. Traffic police also issued advisories regarding diversions and requested motorists to avoid areas witnessing heavy congestion.
Meanwhile, authorities have not announced a definite timeline for the reopening of all affected metro stations, leaving commuters uncertain about when regular services will resume.
As protests continue and security arrangements remain in force, Delhi’s public transport system is expected to operate under close monitoring. Officials have assured that normal operations will be restored once the situation improves, but for now, commuters are advised to remain vigilant and follow official travel advisories.
