New Delhi: In a massive move responding to the ongoing protests in the national capital, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has completely shut down entry and exit gates at sixteen major metro stations in Lutyens and Central Delhi. The decision, taken based on recommendations from security agencies, will remain in effect until further orders to ensure public safety and maintain law and order.
The closure severely impacts daily commuters, office goers, and regular citizens, as the restricted stations cover the city’s core administrative, commercial, and judicial zones. The affected stations include Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Seva Teerth, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, and Shivaji Stadium.
However, to provide some relief to stranded passengers, the DMRC has confirmed that interchange facilities will continue to operate at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat stations. Passengers can switch lines at these junctions to continue their journeys, but they will not be allowed to exit or enter the station premises.
The sweeping restrictions come as thousands of supporters gather daily at Jantar Mantar to back the Cockroach Janta Party’s ongoing agitation. With prominent political figures frequently visiting the protest site and large unidentified crowds assembling, the Delhi Police has significantly amplified its security grid to prevent any untoward incidents.
Law enforcement agencies have converted the roads leading to Jantar Mantar into a fortress. A strict five layer barricading system is now in place. Additionally, the police have mandated that everyone entering the protest site must pass through Door Framed Metal Detectors followed by a secondary manual check using hand held metal detectors.
To maintain strict surveillance over the massive gatherings, the police have also deployed mobile command and control vehicles equipped with high resolution 360 degree cameras and advanced facial recognition technology. This setup aims to swiftly identify and capture footage of any suspicious individuals or those attempting to create a ruckus. The DMRC and local administration have strongly advised commuters to plan alternative routes and regularly check official updates before initiating their travel.