New Delhi is undertaking extensive preparations for the upcoming BRICS Summit 2026, scheduled from September 11 to 13 at Bharat Mandapam. Authorities are focusing on heightened security, comprehensive traffic management, significant airport capacity enhancements, city beautification, and strict airspace restrictions to accommodate the international event. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are among the leaders expected to arrive, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi slated for bilateral meetings.
Traffic Restrictions and Diversions Across Delhi
To manage vehicular movement during the summit, nearly 4,800 traffic personnel have been deployed across Delhi. Officials have identified 22 diversion points, with restrictions potentially affecting over 35 key roads, including Mathura Road, Sardar Patel Marg, Shanti Path, Janpath, and Ashoka Road. Commuters are advised to allocate extra travel time, avoid these restricted routes, and utilize the Metro system whenever possible. Bus services may be diverted, while Metro operations will continue as usual. Parking is also prohibited within 200 meters of designated controlled roads.
Airport Operations Enhanced for International Delegates
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has significantly upgraded its facilities to handle the anticipated increase in international traffic. Terminal 3 capacity has been expanded, and dedicated immigration counters have been introduced for BRICS participants. Pier C at T3 is being progressively operationalized for international flights, with full international arrival and departure services planned from the evening of September 10. Once fully functional, this expansion will boost the airport's annual international passenger capacity by 50%, reaching 31 million.
Airspace Curbs for Enhanced Security
In a major security measure, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a ban on flying activities for Flying Training Organisations in several northern Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh. This restriction will be in effect from 7 AM on September 11 until 11 PM on September 13. Furthermore, light and microlight aircraft, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and similar long-range aerial vehicles are prohibited within a 300 km radius of Delhi. Drones, hang-gliders, paragliders, and other short-range aerial vehicles are barred within 100 km.
Civic Beautification Efforts Underway
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) is leading extensive beautification initiatives across the city. Plans include the display of over 15,000 potted plants, the installation of floral boards at 15 key locations, and the creation of nine floral fountains at prominent spots. Landscaping and plantation work is being carried out along major roads, intersections, and VIP routes, particularly those leading to the Bharat Mandapam summit venue. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Public Works Department (PWD) have jointly inspected critical areas, directing officials to intensify cleaning, sanitation, road and footpath maintenance, lighting, and other preparatory tasks.
Impact on Street Vendors
The National Association of Street Vendors of India (NASVI) has reported that police personnel have asked street vendors in areas such as India Gate, Madangir, and Vasant Vihar to cease vending operations ahead of the summit. Some vendors in Madangir also alleged confiscation of their goods. NASVI expressed concern that these restrictions, continuing through September 13, could leave vendors and their families without earnings for several days. The association has called for clear communication, proportionate and time-bound restrictions, alternative vending arrangements, and a mechanism to address economic losses.