DMRC Suspends Passenger Entry and Exit at Key Metro Stations Near Jantar Mantar as Authorities Deploy Additional CRPF Personnel

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Wednesday temporarily closed 16 Metro stations across central Delhi as student protests intensified around Jantar Mantar. The precautionary measure comes amid continuing demonstrations demanding accountability over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, prompting authorities to strengthen security arrangements across the national capital.

The DMRC announced that passenger entry and exit at the affected stations would remain suspended until further instructions, while assuring commuters that interchange facilities at select major stations would continue to operate. The closures are expected to impact thousands of daily commuters travelling through some of Delhi's busiest commercial and administrative districts.

DMRC Announces Temporary Closure of 16 Metro Stations

In an official advisory, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation confirmed that entry and exit services have been suspended at multiple stations as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety and assist security agencies in managing the protest areas.

Metro Stations Closed

• Lok Kalyan Marg

• Rajiv Chowk

• Patel Chowk

• Ramakrishna Ashram Marg

• Barakhambha Road

• Supreme Court

• Seva Teerth

• Janpath

• Mandi House

• Central Secretariat

• ITO

• Delhi Gate

• Indraprastha

• Khan Market

• Jor Bagh

• Shivaji Stadium

The Metro operator stated that services at these stations will remain suspended until the security situation improves.

Interchange Services Continue at Major Junctions

Although passenger access has been restricted at several stations, the DMRC clarified that commuters can still use interchange facilities at three major transit hubs.

Interchange Available At

• Rajiv Chowk

• Mandi House

• Central Secretariat

This arrangement allows passengers to switch Metro lines without exiting the station, helping minimize disruption to the broader Metro network.

Student Demonstrations Continue Near Jantar Mantar

The Metro closures come as large numbers of students continue demonstrations in central Delhi over the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination.

Protesters have gathered at Jantar Mantar and nearby areas, demanding:

• Greater transparency in the examination process.

• Accountability for the alleged paper leak.

• Resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

• Stronger safeguards against examination malpractice.

The protests have attracted students from different parts of the country and continue to draw significant public attention.

Heavy Security Deployment Across Delhi

With demonstrations expected to continue, security agencies have significantly increased their presence across the capital.

Authorities have implemented several precautionary measures, including:

• Deployment of additional Delhi Police personnel.

• Installation of barricades around sensitive locations.

• Enhanced surveillance in central Delhi.

• Traffic diversions in protest-prone areas.

The Central Government has also deployed 20 additional companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to support law enforcement and maintain public order.

Traffic and Commuters Face Major Disruptions

The temporary closure of Metro stations is expected to affect commuters travelling to business districts, government offices, educational institutions, and tourist attractions located in central Delhi.

Passengers have been advised to:

• Check the latest Metro service updates before travelling.

• Use alternate Metro stations wherever possible.

• Plan for additional travel time.

• Follow instructions issued by Metro officials and security personnel.

Traffic congestion is also expected to increase on nearby roads due to diversions and enhanced security checks.

Jantar Mantar Remains the Centre of Public Demonstrations

Jantar Mantar has historically served as one of Delhi's primary venues for peaceful public demonstrations.

Its strategic location near Parliament, government ministries, and major administrative offices makes it a preferred site for protests involving national issues.

The ongoing student movement has once again placed the area under heightened security, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to prevent any escalation.

Metro Closures Reflect Importance of Public Safety

The Delhi Metro is one of the busiest rapid transit systems in the world, carrying millions of passengers every day. Temporary station closures are generally implemented only during exceptional circumstances involving public safety or major law-and-order concerns.

By restricting passenger movement near protest locations while keeping train operations largely unaffected, the DMRC aims to balance commuter convenience with security requirements.

Officials are expected to review the situation periodically before restoring normal access to the affected stations.

Potential Economic Impact

While the disruption is expected to be temporary, prolonged transport restrictions in central Delhi could have broader implications, including:

• Reduced footfall in commercial markets.

• Delays for office commuters.

• Increased road congestion.

• Higher operating costs for businesses dependent on employee mobility.

• Disruptions to tourism and hospitality activities in central Delhi.

Businesses located around Connaught Place, Janpath, and nearby government districts may experience lower customer traffic if restrictions continue.

What Commuters Should Do

Passengers planning to travel through central Delhi should:

• Monitor official DMRC advisories.

• Consider alternate travel routes.

• Use nearby operational Metro stations where feasible.

• Stay updated on traffic restrictions issued by Delhi Police.

Regular updates are expected as authorities assess the evolving security situation.

Smart Investment Analysis

Although the Metro station closures are primarily a precautionary security measure, they highlight how public demonstrations can temporarily affect urban mobility and economic activity in major metropolitan areas. Central Delhi houses key government offices, financial institutions, commercial centres, and retail markets, making uninterrupted transportation critical for daily business operations. While the immediate impact is expected to remain localized, investors and businesses will monitor developments closely to assess whether prolonged disruptions influence commercial activity or public services.

Key Takeaways

• Delhi Metro has temporarily closed 16 stations across central Delhi amid ongoing student protests.

• Interchange facilities remain operational at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat.

• Student demonstrations near Jantar Mantar continue over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak.

• Protesters are demanding greater accountability and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

• 20 additional CRPF companies have been deployed to strengthen security in the national capital.

• Commuters are advised to check official DMRC updates and use alternative routes until normal operations resume.