BRICS SUMMIT 2026: Delhi is witnessing major traffic restrictions and diversions as authorities prepare for the upcoming BRICS Leaders' Summit at Bharat Mandapam. A motorcade rehearsal is affecting more than 35 roads, with Delhi Traffic Police advising commuters to plan journeys in advance, allow extra travel time and use the Metro wherever possible.

The restrictions affect several important routes across Central, South and other parts of Delhi. Traffic police have also identified multiple diversion points and issued alternate-route advisories for commuters travelling to railway stations and the airport.

India will host the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam on September 12 and 13, 2026. The event is expected to bring together leaders from BRICS member and partner countries, along with outreach invitees.

BRICS SUMMIT 2026 | Delhi Traffic Restrictions On 35+ Roads, Motorcade Rehearsal Underway

BRICS SUMMIT 2026: Delhi is gearing up to host foreign leaders at Bharat Mandapam on September 12 and 13, but the summit is expected to bring major traffic restrictions across the capital.

Delhi Traffic Police have begun rehearsals for foreign leaders and their motorcades, with restrictions covering more than 35 roads and 22 diversion points. Commuters in central, south and southwest Delhi could face diversions, temporary road closures and longer travel times.

Major routes including Sardar Patel Marg, Janpath, Ashoka Road, Mathura Road, Lodhi Road and Africa Avenue are among those affected by the traffic plan. The biggest disruption is expected as foreign leaders and delegations begin arriving around September 10, with restrictions potentially continuing until their departure around September 14.

Adding to the challenge, heavy rain has already caused waterlogging in parts of Delhi, including areas near Indira Gandhi International Airport, while further rain and thunderstorms are forecast around the summit period.

BRICS SUMMIT 2026 | Delhi Traffic Restrictions Begin Ahead Of Foreign Leaders’ Arrival

Several major stories are making headlines across India.

In Uttarakhand, at least seven workers have died after water and debris entered an under-construction THDC tunnel, trapping workers inside. Several others were injured, while two people remain missing. Rescue and relief teams continue operations at the site.

In Delhi, traffic restrictions and diversions have been imposed around the Red Fort ahead of the full-dress rehearsal for Independence Day 2026. Commuters have been advised to avoid several roads and surrounding areas during the rehearsal period.

In Odisha, the Talcher-Puri MEMU passenger train derailed near Puri railway station while travelling at a slow speed. The incident occurred near platform number three, around 500 metres from the station. No major injuries have been reported.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has quashed FIRs against comedian Samay Raina and four others over controversial remarks concerning persons with disabilities on his show. The court noted compliance with its earlier directions, including awareness initiatives and support for persons with disabilities.

Uttarakhand Tunnel Tragedy | Delhi Traffic Curbs | Odisha Train Derails | SC Relief For Samay Raina