New Delhi is currently under extensive security as it welcomes approximately 25 delegations, including heads of state from at least eight of the 11 BRICS member nations, for the 18th BRICS Summit. The high-profile event, taking place from September 11 to 13 at Bharat Mandapam, sees global leaders and their entourages accommodated in several of the capital's most prestigious hotels.
Key Leader Accommodations
- Russian President Vladimir Putin and his delegation have settled into the ITC Maurya on Sardar Patel Marg. This hotel has a history of hosting President Putin during his previous visits to India.
- The expansive 400-member Chinese delegation, led by President Xi Jinping, is staying at the Taj Palace, also located on Sardar Patel Marg. President Xi previously stayed at this hotel during his 2014 visit to India.
- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and his delegation are accommodated at The Oberoi, situated near Golf Links.
- The Leela Palace is hosting multiple delegations, including those from the UAE, Thailand, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, along with some members of the Russian contingent.
- The South African delegation is staying at The Lalit.
- The Egyptian delegation is based at the Sheraton New Delhi.
Other Delegations and Security Measures
With 11 member countries and 10 partner nations attending, additional delegations and outreach invitees are spread across various other luxury properties, predominantly in central Delhi. These include Le Méridien, The Claridges, The Imperial, The Ashok, and Hotel Samrat.
The city has implemented stringent security protocols for the summit. Approximately 15,000 Delhi Police personnel, 200 companies of paramilitary forces, and over 500 CCTV cameras have been deployed across New Delhi to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries and smooth conduct of the event.
Traffic Advisories for Residents
While Delhi Traffic Police have clarified that the city is not under a complete shutdown, residents should anticipate temporary traffic restrictions, diversions, and stoppages on routes utilized by VVIP convoys. These measures are dynamic, with vehicle movement released in phases based on security requirements and ground conditions, advising commuters to plan their travel accordingly during the summit period.