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Capital will shut down to clear way for US president
Capital will shut down to clear way for US president
Starting Sunday, around 1,000 traffic cops will be out on the roads throughout US President Barack Obama’s stay in the city.
Senior officials from Delhi police said a detailed plan has been put in place for unrestricted movement of the president and his motorcade.
On January 25, when Obama lands in the city, the Lutyens’ zone will witness a minor shutdown-like situation. Roads will only be opened for movement after Obama and his entourage reaches his hotel — the ITC Maurya. Sardar Patel Marg, where the hotel is located, will remain out of bounds for the public starting Saturday evening.
“Traffic movement in the coming days will depend on the President’s route. We got the traffic plan approved from all concerned departments. We have also deployed extra traffic officials to ensure unrestricted movement for the motorcade and to man traffic in the city,” said Muktesh Chander, special commissioner of police (traffic).
Sources said a US secret service team was keen on examining emergency exit routes at places Obama would visit. The routes were approved by them in a special meeting with the Delhi police.
The restrictions, however, are likely to result in major traffic holdups in some areas of the city. Motorists coming from and going towards Gurgaon are also likely to face inconvenience due to likely traffic spillovers.
