G20 summit

All municipal, state-run, and non-essential private offices in Delhi will be closed between September 8 and 10 due to the G20 Summit, according to officials familiar with the matter. The decision to declare a government holiday during these dates was made following a recommendation from the Delhi Police to chief secretary Naresh Kumar. A formal order announcing the public holiday will be issued after lieutenant governor (LG) VK Saxena gives his final approval to the proposal. LG Saxena is expected to issue a gazette notification in this regard. As a result of the holiday, all markets and banks in the New Delhi police district will also remain closed during the G20 Summit. Certain Metro stations, including Supreme Court and Central Secretariat, are expected to be closed for security reasons. Additionally, heavy vehicles, except those involved in essential services, will not be allowed to enter the city between September 8 and 10. While no formal order has been issued yet regarding the closure of shops in the New Delhi area, the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has requested the government to keep the shops open and stated that traders are willing to cooperate with authorities for security purposes. The recommendation for a government holiday was made to minimize potential traffic congestion and logistical challenges during the G20 Summit. It is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of delegates and contributing to the overall success of the event. Deputy commissioner of police (public relations) Suman Nalwa explained that the recommendation includes issuing orders for the closure of commercial and business establishments in the ‘controlled zones’ mainly located in New Delhi district. This move is part of the comprehensive security and movement plan prepared by Delhi Police for the G20 Summit.