Messi's Delhi visit today: Traffic diversions, parking restrictions in place
What's the story
Argentinian football star Lionel Messi is set to arrive in Delhi on Monday as part of his G.O.A.T India Tour 2025. The visit is expected to affect traffic, especially around the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where he will be present between 1:00pm and 4:00pm. Thousands of fans are likely to flock to the stadium for a chance to see the Argentine footballer. The Delhi Traffic Police have issued an advisory detailing traffic diversions and restrictions.
Traffic advisory
Traffic diversions and restrictions announced by Delhi Police
Bahadurshah Zafar Marg and Jawaharlal Nehru Marg will see diversions, with no heavy vehicles allowed from Daryaganj to BSZ Marg and Guru Nanak Chowk to Asaf Ali Road. Commuters are advised to avoid stretches on JLN Marg between Rajghat and Delhi Gate up to Kamla Market roundabout (both carriageways), Asaf Ali Road from Turkman Gate to Delhi Gate, and BSZ Marg from Delhi Gate to Ramcharan Aggarwal Chowk (ITO) on both carriageways between 12:00pm and 5:00pm.
Stadium access
Stadium entry points and parking restrictions for fans
The advisory also details entry points to the stadium. Gates 1-8 will be used from BSZ Marg on the southern side, gates 10-15 from JLN Marg near Ambedkar Stadium bus terminal on the eastern side, and gates 16-18 from BSZ Marg near the petrol pump on the western side. Free parking is available at Mata Sundari Road, Rajghat Power House Road, and Velodrome Road.
Security and transport
Security measures and transportation options for Messi's visit
Parking near the stadium is restricted to labeled vehicles only, with a clear display of parking labels required. Illegal parking will result in towing and prosecution of vehicles. App-based taxi pick-up and drop points are set up at Maulana Azad Medical College near gate number 2 on BSZ Marg and Rajghat Chowk. According to The Indian Express, a total of 2,500 personnel will be deployed in anticipation of a crowd of around 30,000 people at Monday's event.