As Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour 2025 culminates in Delhi, the Delhi Police has issued a comprehensive traffic advisory to manage the anticipated influx of fans and ensure the safety and smooth flow of traffic around the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The advisory, released on Sunday, outlines traffic diversions, restrictions, parking regulations, and alternative routes for commuters.
The advisory specifically targets the areas surrounding the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where Messi is scheduled to appear on Monday, December 15, between 1 PM and 4 PM. Anticipating a large turnout of football enthusiasts eager to catch a glimpse of the Argentine superstar, authorities are implementing these measures to minimize inconvenience and maintain order.
Traffic Restrictions and Diversions:
To prevent congestion, traffic diversions and restrictions will be in effect on Bahadurshah Zafar Marg (BSZ Marg) and Jawaharlal Nehru Marg (JLN Marg). Heavy vehicles will be prohibited from traveling from Daryaganj to BSZ Marg, and from Guru Nanak Chowk to Asaf Ali Road. Commuters have been advised to avoid specific stretches of JLN Marg, Asaf Ali Road, and BSZ Marg during the specified hours. These include:
- JLN Marg stretches from Rajghat to Delhi Gate and up to Kamla Market roundabout (both carriageways).
- Asaf Ali Road from Turkman Gate to Delhi Gate.
- BSZ Marg from Delhi Gate to Ramcharan Aggarwal Chowk (ITO) on both carriageways.
If needed, traffic diversions may be implemented from Delhi Gate Chowk and ITO. During VIP movement, traffic may be briefly slowed to allow the players' buses to reach and enter the stadium smoothly.
Parking Regulations:
Parking will be strictly prohibited around the Arun Jaitley Stadium, and vehicles parked in unauthorized areas will be towed and fined.
Designated parking areas have been established to accommodate vehicles, including:
- P1 near Vikram Nagar (for labeled vehicles).
- Rajghat Powerhouse parking lot.
- Mata Sundari Lane.
- Ram Leela Ground, Indira Gandhi Stadium, Hindi Bhawan, Asaf Ali Road and the multi-level car park opposite Lok Nayak Hospital.
App-based taxi users are advised to get dropped off at Rajghat Chowk and walk to the stadium.
Alternative Routes and Transportation:
The advisory encourages the public to utilize public transportation options such as the metro and buses to mitigate traffic congestion. Entry to the stadium will be through designated gates, with specific entry points for different ticket holders. These include gate numbers 1 to 8 from BSZ Marg on the southern side, gate numbers 10 to 15 from the JLN Marg near Ambedkar Stadium bus terminal on the eastern side, and from gate numbers 16 to 18 from BSZ Marg near the petrol pump on the western side.
Security Measures:
In light of the chaos witnessed during the Kolkata leg of the tour, the Delhi Police has implemented multi-layered security arrangements at and around the Arun Jaitley Stadium. These measures include additional police personnel, paramilitary forces, anti-sabotage checks, frisking points, and CCTV surveillance. Entry to the stadium and designated areas will be strictly regulated, with no one permitted without a valid pass.
Additional Guidelines:
Spectators are advised to arrive early due to security checks and ticket scanning. No bags are allowed inside the stadium. Prohibited items include outside food and beverages, alcohol, weapons, drones, power banks, cameras, laptops, umbrellas, banners, helmets, coins, perfumes, selfie sticks and bottles. Children aged two years and above must carry a valid ticket for entry.
The Delhi leg marks the conclusion of Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour 2025. The tour has included events in Kolkata, Hyderabad and Mumbai.
