Diwali 2025 Travel Alert: DMRC Announces Extended Services, Route And Timing Details Here

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced special operational timings for the Diwali festivities to facilitate passenger convenience. On the eve of Diwali, October 19, 2025, Metro services on the Pink, Magenta, and Grey Lines will commence an hour earlier than usual, beginning at 6:00 AM instead of 7:00 AM. On Diwali day, October 20, the last Metro train from all terminal stations-covering every line, including the Airport Express Line-will start at 10:00 PM, with regular schedules followed for the rest of the day. The DMRC stated that the changes aim to accommodate the surge in commuters during the festive season.

Just ahead of Diwali, the Delhi-NCR region witnessed massive traffic congestion on Friday evening, severely affecting movement across key city routes. Major intersections and arterial roads such as Moolchand Flyover, ITO Junction, Chanakyapuri, Teen Murti Marg, and Mathura Road from Badarpur to Ashram Chowk experienced long traffic jams and bumper-to-bumper movement. Popular market areas filled with Diwali shoppers also saw heavy gridlocks, leaving commuters stranded for hours and adding to the city's festive rush.

In view of the worsening traffic conditions, the Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory urging citizens to avoid travel during peak hours, use alternate routes, and stay updated through official traffic platforms and navigation apps. The advisory also recommended starting journeys early and using public transport where possible to ease congestion.

To handle the increased traffic volume, Delhi Police has implemented several proactive steps. All leaves for traffic personnel have been cancelled to ensure maximum deployment, while motorcycle patrol teams have been stationed for quicker incident response. The police have also intensified monitoring in busy commercial zones and market areas with heavy footfall to prevent roadblocks and ensure smoother movement.

With millions expected to travel during the Diwali weekend, authorities are appealing to citizens to rely on public transportation, avoid crowded market areas during evenings, check real-time traffic updates before leaving, and consider carpooling or delaying non-essential trips. These measures, officials said, will help reduce pressure on the city's roads and ensure a safer, smoother, and more enjoyable Diwali for everyone.