Delhi Travel Chaos: Internet Blackout and Train Cancellations Impacting Commuters Today

Central Delhi faces a 24-hour mobile internet suspension from 10 pm on October 9 to 10 pm on October 10 within a 4‑km radius of the Janpath–Kartavya Path crossing. Simultaneously, Indian Railways has cancelled all mail and express arrivals into New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin from 4 am to 2 pm today.

Railways say the move anticipates gridlock near both stations; operations at Old Delhi, Anand Vihar, Sarai Rohilla and Delhi Cantt remain normal. If booked to NDLS or NZM in the blocked window, consider rebooking to these alternatives or travelling later in the day. Carry printed tickets and ID.

Internet blackout: coverage, UPI and maps workarounds

The shutdown targets mobile internet around Janpath–Kartavya Path, likely disrupting UPI and live navigation for commuters, tourists and exam-takers. Prepare cash, enable UPI Lite for small offline payments, or dial the USSD code *99# for UPI without data. Download offline maps in advance on Google Maps.

NDLS/NZM cancellations: what’s affected and your refund rights

Arrivals to New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin between 4 am and 2 pm are cancelled; some short-origin services may be rescheduled or diverted. For trains cancelled by Railways, e-ticket refunds are automatic; PRS counter tickets can be refunded within prescribed timelines. For assistance or status, use RailMadad/helpline 139.

Delhi Metro and Namo Bharat: closures, interchanges, timings today

DMRC has closed entry and exit at 57 stations from 9 pm on October 9, with interchange permitted at affected stations except New Delhi. Namo Bharat’s Sarai Kale Khan and New Ashok Nagar stations are shut till 10 pm today; trains continue otherwise. The Supreme Court cautioned against blanket shutdowns.

Traffic diversions: plan last‑mile access near Janpath

Delhi Traffic Police warn diversions from 6 am around Tolstoy–Janpath, Patel Chowk, Windsor Place, Rail Bhawan, Rajiv Chowk, and nearby corridors. Expect barricading and delays across New Delhi district. Start early, alight at open interchanges, and walk the last stretch if needed for exams or interviews.

Why the protest matters for students and job‑seekers

The demonstration challenges electoral roll revisions and seeks the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Courts on October 9 urged authorities to regulate, not prohibit, public transport. Monitor fresh orders and advisories through today, October 10, before setting out.

Key actions for today: verify train status and station, favour Anand Vihar or Sarai Rohilla if possible, keep two hours of buffer, print tickets and admit cards, download offline maps, and set up offline UPI options. For emergencies or assistance during travel, contact RailMadad on 139.