Delhi NCR commuters faced significant traffic disruptions on Monday morning as key roads connecting Noida to Faridabad via Kalindi Kunj were closed for the ongoing Kanwar Yatra. The Delhi Traffic Police implemented these restrictions to ensure safe passage for thousands of Kanwariyas returning from Haridwar with sacred water, turning the start of the workweek into a frustrating crawl for daily travelers.
The road connecting Noida to Faridabad via Kalindi Kunj was entirely shut, while one lane of the same stretch towards Noida was already closed. This closure has compelled vehicles traveling from Noida to Faridabad to undertake a lengthy 8-kilometer detour via the Badarpur border, an alternate route that also experienced heavy congestion throughout the day. Adding to the woes, another stretch from Delhi to Noida remains closed due to the setup of Kanwar camps, causing extended delays in both directions despite traffic signals being turned off to manage flow.
Authorities anticipate the traffic situation to worsen on Tuesday with the return of ‘Dak Kanwars’—pilgrims who complete the journey by running. Relief from the congestion is only expected by Wednesday afternoon. Delhi Traffic Police advisories indicate that traffic restrictions in Kalindi Kunj and adjoining areas will remain in place until July 23, with major stretches like GT Road, Swami Dayanand Marg, and Pushta Road also affected by full or partial closures.
Commuters are strongly advised to plan their journeys in advance and utilize alternative routes such as the DND Flyway or the Ashram route to avoid Kalindi Kunj when traveling between Noida and Delhi. These measures, though causing inconvenience, are deemed necessary for the safety of pilgrims and to manage the heavy influx of devotees during the auspicious month of Sawan.
