Dhanteras shopping rush chokes Delhi-NCR roads, commuters face long traffic jams

Heavy traffic reported across several parts of Delhi on Friday as Dhanteras shoppers thronged markets and shopping centres, disrupting traffic movement on key roads. Congestion was particularly heavy near Connaught Place, Chandni Chowk, Lajpat Nagar and Sarojini Nagar, while commuters travelling towards Noida and Gurugram also faced delays during the evening rush.

The surge in visitors to commercial areas affected traffic from the morning, with queues of vehicles building up around shopping districts and on roads connecting them to residential neighbourhoods.

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Dhanteras shoppers crowd Delhi markets, traffic slows across major roads

In central Delhi, vehicles moved bumper to bumper on roads around Connaught Place, Janpath and Karol Bagh. Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazar and neighbouring parts of the old city also saw heavy traffic as people visited markets for festive purchases.

Conditions were similar in south Delhi, where Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, Greater Kailash and South Extension drew shoppers throughout the day. The volume of vehicles and limited parking near several markets added to delays on adjoining streets.

The congestion extended beyond market areas. Slow traffic was reported on stretches of Ring Road, Outer Ring Road, Mathura Road, Barapullah elevated road and routes near ITO. Motorists travelling towards Noida faced delays on the DND road, while traffic was also affected on the approach to Gurugram through NH-48.

In east Delhi, queues of vehicles were reported near Anand Vihar, Ghazipur and Khichripur. The movement of passengers heading out of the city for Diwali added to pressure on roads around inter-state bus terminals and railway stations.

Anand Vihar was particularly busy as buses and private vehicles converged on the transport hub. Congestion in the area had been reported earlier in the day, with traffic continuing to build during the evening.

Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory for festive rush at Anand Vihar

Delhi Traffic Police has introduced special arrangements around Anand Vihar ISBT and neighbouring transport facilities from November 5 to 15 to manage travel during Dhanteras, Diwali, Bhai Dooj and Chhath Puja.

Police have advised drivers to follow notified diversions, avoid unauthorised parking and use alternative routes where necessary. They have also asked travellers to plan their journeys in advance and consider public transport to reduce pressure on the roads.

The traffic police said motorists should follow directions issued by personnel deployed in the area. Its helpline, 1095, and control room number, 011-25844444, are available for traffic-related assistance.

Dhanteras celebrations bring crowds to jewellery and household goods markets

The rush came as households across the city prepared for Diwali, which falls on Sunday. Dhanteras, observed on Friday this year, marks the beginning of the festival period for many families.

Jewellery shops and other retailers traditionally see increased demand on the occasion, when buying gold, silver, utensils and household goods is considered auspicious. Some families also purchase vehicles, electronic appliances and brooms as part of the day's customs.

The festival is associated with prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera and Lord Dhanvantari, who is revered in Hindu tradition as the deity of Ayurveda. Many worshippers perform evening prayers at home after completing their purchases.

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