Massive Traffic, Crowded Metro Stations as Delhi Rings in New Year 2025
Delhi welcomed the first day of 2025 with an overwhelming influx of people, leading to significant traffic jams and crowded public transport hubs. The capital witnessed an exceptional turnout at iconic spots like India Gate, with thousands gathering along Kartavya Path to celebrate New Year’s Day. The dense crowds caused heavy congestion around the C-Hexagon area, adding to the woes of commuters trying to navigate central Delhi.
Prominent religious landmarks, including Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, Prachin Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place, Akshardham Mandir, Jhandewalan Mandir, and Khatu Shyam Mandir on GT Road, saw a remarkable surge in devotees. The Jagannath Temple in south Delhi also reported large numbers of visitors. Families and devotees flocked to these locations early in the day, eager to seek blessings for the new year.
The city’s Metro stations struggled to handle the massive turnout. Commuters faced long queues at key interchange points, including Central Secretariat, Mandi House, and Rajiv Chowk. Ticket counters, entry gates, and platforms were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of passengers. Travelers reported lengthy wait times as they maneuvered through the crowds to board trains.
Traffic disruptions were rampant across the city, with central hubs like Parliament Street, Connaught Place, and the roads leading to India Gate experiencing gridlock. Other parts of the capital, including Karawal Nagar in the northeast and stretches from Rithala to Rohini Sector-24, reported heavy congestion. Northwest Delhi, especially areas from Samaypur Badli to Shahbad Dairy, was similarly affected. Major routes like the Burari Bypass and Ajmeri Gate Chowk to Paharganj Chowk also dealt with prolonged jams.
In a statement, the Delhi Traffic Police highlighted issues on Rohtak Road, where potholes and waterlogging caused delays from Mundka to Rajdhani Park. Advisories urged residents to plan their travel accordingly. Police personnel were strategically stationed across critical intersections to manage the increased footfall, particularly around India Gate, Ashoka Road, and Connaught Place. Measures were taken to restrict auto-rickshaw parking and direct visitors to designated areas to reduce disruptions.
The celebratory atmosphere drew visitors from all walks of life. Deepali Verma, a resident of North Delhi, visited the Prachin Hanuman Mandir with her family to offer prayers and seek blessings. Expressing her wishes for a prosperous year, she said, “I wish everyone a very happy New Year filled with peace and prosperity. We came here as a family to thank Lord Hanuman and start the year on a positive note.”
Popular tourist destinations in Delhi also witnessed massive crowds. At Qutub Minar, Kajal, a resident of Machkar Village, shared her frustration after waiting over an hour to purchase tickets. She remarked, “The long wait has taken away all our excitement. We’re wondering if coming here was a good idea. The crowd is much larger than in previous years.”
As the day progressed, the situation showed no signs of easing. Authorities anticipated the crowds would peak later in the evening, particularly around iconic landmarks and public spaces. Residents and visitors alike embraced the vibrant yet chaotic start to the new year, showcasing Delhi’s unparalleled enthusiasm for celebrations.
