CP Traffic Alert: CJP Rally to Disrupt Commute This Friday
Traffic around Connaught Place may be disrupted on Friday due to a proposed CJP rally. Check diversions and NDMC closure details here.
Commuters in the heart of the national capital should brace for delays as Connaught Place traffic advisory warnings have been issued ahead of a proposed gathering by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). The Delhi Traffic Police have alerted the public that movement on several roads around the iconic hub is likely to be impacted starting from 3:00 PM on Friday, October 16.
Traffic Police Issue Warning
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Delhi Traffic Police cautioned that the gathering at Central Park could lead to significant congestion. To avoid being caught in gridlock, the authorities have urged citizens to:
- Plan their travel schedules in advance.
- Allocate extra time for their journeys.
- Prioritize the use of public transport.
- Strictly follow the instructions provided by traffic personnel on the ground.
The police further noted that traffic diversions may be implemented on the fly, depending on how the situation evolves. They have encouraged commuters to monitor official social media handles for real-time updates on route changes.
Central Park Closed and Prohibitory Orders in Place
Adding to the restrictions, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) announced on Thursday that Central Park in Connaught Place will remain closed to the general public on October 16 and 17, citing "administrative reasons."
Furthermore, the Delhi Police confirmed that a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) is already active in Connaught Place and its surrounding vicinities. While the police have appealed to protesters not to violate this order, they mentioned a possibility of making specific arrangements to allow a limited group of people to gather at a suitable location for the purpose of singing the national anthem and carrying the national flag.
High Court Intervention and Business Concerns
The proposed protest has not been without controversy. The Delhi High Court was drawn into the matter after Anil Kumar Gupta, a licensed street vendor at Palika Bazar, filed a plea expressing fear that the gathering would disrupt local business activities.
During the hearing, a bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma recorded an assurance from the Delhi Police. The police assured the court that all legal measures would be taken to address the concerns regarding the CJP's proposed protest and to ensure that the situation remains under control.