BRICS Summit 2026: Delhi’s Open-And-Shut List, Restrictions And Travel Rules Explained

The national capital is set to witness heightened security arrangements and traffic restrictions from September 11 to 13 as the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit takes place at Bharat Mandapam on September 12 and 13. The arrival and movement of heads of state, foreign delegations and senior dignitaries are expected to affect normal activity across several parts of Delhi, with authorities putting special arrangements in place around key routes and venues. For residents, September 11 will see several public institutions remain closed. All government, government-aided and recognised unaided private schools functioning under the Delhi Directorate of Education will remain shut on Friday, September 11.

The closure has been announced in view of the summit-related arrangements in the city and is expected to give authorities greater flexibility to manage traffic and security during the movement of visiting dignitaries. The Delhi Lieutenant Governor has also declared September 11 a public holiday for the national capital because of the BRICS summit. As a result, Delhi government offices will remain closed on the day. Autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings under the Delhi government will also observe the holiday. The decision is part of the broader arrangements being made ahead of the high-profile international gathering, which will bring foreign leaders and official delegations to the capital.

Schools are expected to reopen on Monday after the weekend. The temporary closure applies to government and private schools covered under the Delhi Directorate of Education, meaning students and teaching staff will not be required to attend school on September 11. The holiday also coincides with the period when security agencies are expected to remain particularly active in central and other sensitive areas of the city. Despite the closure of schools and several government institutions, not all services in Delhi will be affected. Banks and private offices are expected to remain operational, allowing regular commercial and financial activity to continue.

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However, residents and employees may face delays or diversions while travelling because of restrictions imposed for the movement of visiting leaders and other high-ranking delegates. People commuting through areas affected by security arrangements may therefore need to account for additional travel time. Delhi Metro services are also expected to continue operating during the summit period, although commuters may face certain restrictions depending on security requirements and the movement of dignitaries.

With Bharat Mandapam serving as the venue for the main summit proceedings on September 12 and 13, security agencies are expected to maintain heightened vigilance around the venue and important routes used by official convoys. The BRICS summit is consequently expected to have a temporary impact on the daily routine of Delhi residents between September 11 and 13. While schools and Delhi government offices will remain closed on September 11, banks, private offices and essential public transport services will continue functioning, subject to security-related measures. Residents have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly, particularly during periods when restrictions are imposed for the movement of foreign delegations and senior dignitaries.

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