Chinese premier's visit chokes roads

Delhiites had a harrowing time on the city roads on Wednesday, as VIP movement put many roads off limits for long periods of time.

Delhiites had a harrowing time on the city roads on Wednesday, as VIP movement put many roads off limits for long periods of time.

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Both carriageways of various roads in central and south Delhi were closed for some time as security measures for Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

Heavy rush was seen on roads leading to the Ring Road, which was completely choked in the evening. People were stuck in jams for up to two hours on many stretches.

"I left office at 5 pm but was stuck in SP Marg for a very long time,” said Shweta Sharma, whose office is located in Connaught Place.

The situation is not expected to improve on Thursday. On the contrary, it might just turn worse. Areas in Central Delhi are likely to be the worst-hit, as Wen is expected to go to Rajghat, Rashtrapati Bhavan and Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium. "VIP movement is expected to increase tomorrow (Thursday) as the Chinese Premier is expected to make around 10 trips around the city. We will block roads in a phased and staggered manner to ensure smooth flow of traffic,” said S Nityanandam, joint CP, Delhi Traffic Police.

On Wednesday, heavy jams were experienced. A bus also broke down in Moti Bagh and added to the woes of citizens.