Thousands of commuters across Delhi experienced major travel disruptions on Thursday after the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) temporarily closed 16 metro stations following heightened security arrangements in the national capital.
According to the DMRC, the stations were closed from 7.30 am on the advice of security agencies and will remain shut until further notice. While metro trains continue to run on the affected routes, they are not stopping at these stations, preventing passengers from entering or exiting.
The stations affected by the order include Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Seva Teerth, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh and Shivaji Stadium.
The DMRC clarified that passengers can still change trains at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat, as interchange facilities remain operational despite the closure of entry and exit gates.
The restrictions were imposed as authorities strengthened security across central Delhi ahead of protests and public gatherings in sensitive areas. Although officials have not announced a timeline for reopening the stations, they said services would resume once security agencies issue fresh instructions.
The sudden closure caught many commuters by surprise during the morning rush hour. Office-goers, students and visitors were forced to change their travel plans, with many walking to nearby stations or relying on buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws to complete their journeys.
The disruption also led to increased traffic on several roads as more people turned to private vehicles and app-based cab services. Long queues were reported outside operational metro stations, while buses serving central Delhi witnessed heavier passenger loads than usual.
To minimise inconvenience, the DMRC urged passengers to check station status before travelling and follow updates through its official communication channels. Commuters have also been advised to allow extra travel time, as enhanced security checks at operational stations may lead to delays.
Delhi Police and other security agencies have deployed additional personnel across key locations to manage crowds and maintain law and order. Security checks have been intensified at metro stations, government buildings and important public areas as a precautionary measure.
The Delhi Metro is one of the busiest rapid transit networks in the country, carrying millions of passengers every day. Any closure involving major stations such as Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat and Mandi House has a widespread impact on commuters across multiple metro corridors.
Officials have appealed to the public to remain calm, cooperate with security personnel and avoid spreading unverified information on social media. They said the temporary restrictions are purely precautionary and are intended to ensure public safety while security arrangements remain in place.
Until the stations reopen, commuters travelling through central Delhi are advised to plan their journeys in advance, use alternative stations wherever possible and keep track of official DMRC announcements for the latest service updates.
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