Delhi Metro station closures are in effect at six key stations in central Delhi on Monday, October 12, amid security arrangements for a Congress-led Opposition march towards the Supreme Court.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced restrictions on entry and exit at the affected stations from 6 AM to 4 PM, while interchange facilities would remain operational. Commuters should check official updates before travelling, as the arrangements may change following a security review.
Which Delhi Metro Stations Are Closed Today?
According to the DMRC announcement, entry and exit facilities at the following six stations are restricted on October 12:
- Patel Chowk
- Janpath
- Rajiv Chowk
- Mandi House
- Central Secretariat
- Barakhamba Road
However, the DMRC clarified that interchange facilities would remain available at all six stations. This means passengers changing between metro lines can continue to use the designated interchange facilities, even though they cannot enter or exit through the affected stations during the restriction period.
Why Are Six Delhi Metro Stations Closed?
The restrictions coincide with a planned march by Congress-led Opposition leaders towards the Supreme Court to protest alleged electoral irregularities, which the Opposition describes as “vote chori”.
Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge were among the leaders associated with the planned march. Reports published on October 12 said Chief Justice of India Surya Kant had declined Rahul Gandhi’s request for a meeting, with sources citing similar matters being sub judice.
The allegations of electoral irregularities are claims made by the Opposition and should not be presented as established findings of wrongdoing.
The DMRC cited security reasons for the station restrictions and said security agencies would review the situation.
Delhi Metro Services and Traffic Advisory
Although entry and exit are restricted at the six stations, metro interchange facilities remain operational. Passengers should therefore distinguish between a station being completely shut and restrictions applying only to its entry and exit points.
The Delhi Traffic Police has also issued an advisory warning of possible traffic disruptions and diversions at multiple locations as security arrangements continue around the planned march. Commuters travelling through central Delhi should allow additional time for their journeys.
Passengers heading to offices, government buildings, commercial areas or other destinations near the affected stations should check the latest official metro and traffic updates before leaving.
The restrictions are time-specific, and passengers should not assume that the same arrangements will continue after 4 PM. Any extension or modification will depend on subsequent official announcements.
Supreme Court’s Earlier Directions on Public Transport
The latest restrictions come amid a wider debate over public movement and security measures during protests in the capital.
The Supreme Court had earlier raised concerns about restrictions on public transport during protests in Delhi, emphasising the need to balance security measures with public convenience. The October 12 station restrictions are a separate development. The precise legal implications should be assessed in light of the Court’s earlier directions and any subsequent orders.
The subsequent announcement of restrictions at six stations on October 12 has renewed attention on how authorities balance security requirements with commuters’ access to public transport.
The legal and administrative implications of the latest measures will depend on the precise directions issued by the court and the actions taken by the authorities.
What Should Delhi Metro Passengers Do Today?
Passengers travelling on October 12 should take the following precautions:
- Check official DMRC updates before starting their journey.
- Avoid planning entry or exit through the six affected stations during the restriction period.
- Use alternative nearby stations where practical.
- Check Delhi Traffic Police advisories for possible road diversions.
- Allow extra travel time, particularly for journeys through central Delhi.
- Confirm whether restrictions have been lifted before travelling after 4 PM.
What Commuters Need to Know
The Delhi Metro station closures announced for October 12 restrict entry and exit at six central Delhi stations from 6 AM to 4 PM, while interchange facilities remain available. The restrictions were announced ahead of the Opposition’s planned march towards the Supreme Court. Commuters should check official DMRC and Delhi Traffic Police updates for the latest information.
