The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has temporarily closed 18 Metro stations in Central Delhi starting at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday due to heightened security measures related to ongoing student protests near Jantar Mantar over NEET paper leaks. The closure will remain in effect until further notice. DMRC announced the closure on social media, mentioning that interchange facilities will still be available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat.
Entry and exit services have been suspended at various stations including Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, and others as per the advisory issued by DMRC. Passengers are restricted from entering or exiting these stations, but interchange services at specific stations will continue to operate. The security measures come amidst expectations of large gatherings due to the ongoing protests, marking the fifth consecutive day of Metro-related restrictions in the national capital.
The DMRC has advised passengers to plan their travel in advance and make alternative arrangements where necessary. The temporary closures are being seen as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order. The shutdown has inconvenienced daily commuters, including office-goers, students, lawyers, and railway passengers, leading to increased reliance on road transport and longer travel times due to traffic congestion.
The closure of the New Delhi Metro Station has notably impacted travel to and from the New Delhi Railway Station, a major transport hub. The restrictions have raised concerns about citizens’ freedom of movement, with debates sparked over the repeated station closures. Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, expressed worry about the closure of the Supreme Court Metro station affecting the court’s operations. Commuters have reported delays, longer waiting times, and diversions while navigating alternate routes in the city.
