Christmas celebrations are set to impact traffic in various parts of Delhi, with churches and cathedrals anticipating a significant influx of devotees. The Sacred Heart Cathedral near Gol Dak Khana, St Thomas Church (Mandir Marg), Free Church (Sansad Marg), Cathedral Church (in front of the Rashtrapati Bhawan), St Martin’s Church (Delhi Cantonment), St Thomas Church (R K Puram), and St Mary’s Knanaya Church (Vasant Kunj) are among the places expecting heavy congregations.
As a result, heavy traffic is expected near Gol Dak Khana and on Ashoka Road, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Sansad Marg, Lodhi Road, Aurobindo Marg, and other stretches, according to officials. Traffic diversions are planned, with routes such as RML roundabout, Bhai Veer Singh Marg, Kali Bari T-point, Patel Chowk on Ashoka Road, and Connaught Place Outer Circle affected.
To manage the anticipated crowd of around two lakh people at the cathedral near Gol Dak Khana, the New Delhi district police have divided traffic personnel duties into three shifts, starting from 5 pm on Sunday until the conclusion of the celebrations on Monday. Adequate arrangements have been made, and additional personnel have been deployed in market areas to ensure a smooth flow of traffic.
Visitors are being instructed to park their vehicles at designated locations to prevent traffic jams, and personnel are actively informing commuters about alternative routes. The authorities aim to facilitate a seamless Christmas celebration while managing the associated traffic challenges.