New Delhi, September 7: Schools across the national capital will remain closed on September 11 in view of the BRICS Business Forum and the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, as Delhi steps up preparations for the high-profile international gathering.
The Delhi government’s Directorate of Education has declared the day a holiday for government, government-aided and recognised private schools under its jurisdiction.
The decision has been taken amid extensive security and traffic arrangements planned for the summit. Authorities expect the movement of foreign dignitaries and VIP convoys to affect traffic on several important routes across the city.
The summit is scheduled to be held from September 11 to 13 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The large-scale event is expected to bring senior representatives and delegations to the capital.With September 12 and 13 falling on Saturday and Sunday, respectively, students will have a three-day break from Friday through Sunday.
Traffic restrictions likely on key routes
Delhi Traffic Police has been preparing a detailed traffic-management plan for the summit and has conducted rehearsals for VIP motorcades.According to the advisory cited in the report, more than 35 roads may face traffic restrictions at different times, while 22 diversion points have been identified.
The restrictions are expected to extend beyond the immediate Pragati Maidan area. Several routes in central and south Delhi, along with roads connecting diplomatic areas and hotels used by visiting delegations, could experience temporary diversions or stoppages during VIP movements.
The timing and duration of restrictions are expected to depend on the movement of dignitaries and prevailing security requirements.
Commuters advised to plan journeys
Residents travelling through affected areas are likely to face delays and diversions during the summit period. Commuters are advised to monitor official traffic updates and allow additional time for their journeys.
The closure of schools is also intended to reduce the volume of daily traffic and minimise disruption while security agencies manage the movement of international delegations.
The BRICS summit will provide participating countries with an opportunity to discuss economic cooperation, trade, investment and other issues of international importance.
Authorities are continuing preparations to ensure that the summit is conducted safely while maintaining normal movement across as much of the capital as possible.
